How many syllables in “possessive”?
syllables in "possessive"
Word details
Syllables
3
poss · essi · ve
Letters
10
p · o · s · s · e · s · s · i · v · e
Scrabble
15
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “possessive”
The word “possessive” contains 3 syllables, divided as poss · essi · ve. It has 10 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "possessive" have?
"possessive" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "possessive" into syllables?
"possessive" is divided into syllables as: poss · essi · ve.
What is the Scrabble score for "possessive"?
The Scrabble score for "possessive" is 15 points.
Using “possessive” in writing
Three-syllable words like "possessive" (poss · essi · ve) create a rolling, flowing rhythm in verse. Depending on where the stress lands, they can form dactylic (DUM-da-da) or anapestic (da-da-DUM) feet — common in limericks, ballads, and song lyrics. In haiku, a single three-syllable word covers more than half of a short line.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “possessive” is worth 15 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.