How many syllables in “imperative”?
syllables in "imperative"
Word details
Syllables
4
imp · era · tiv · e
Letters
10
i · m · p · e · r · a · t · i · v · e
Scrabble
17
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “imperative”
The word “imperative” contains 4 syllables, divided as imp · era · tiv · e. It has 10 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "imperative" have?
"imperative" has 4 syllables.
How do you divide "imperative" into syllables?
"imperative" is divided into syllables as: imp · era · tiv · e.
What is the Scrabble score for "imperative"?
The Scrabble score for "imperative" is 17 points.
Using “imperative” in writing
Four-syllable words like "imperative" (imp · era · tiv · e) span two full iambic feet. In a line of iambic pentameter (10 syllables), a four-syllable word takes nearly half the line, making it a powerful anchor. Use it deliberately — multi-syllable words slow the reader down and add weight.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “imperative” is worth 17 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.