How many syllables in “rarely”?
syllables in "rarely"
Word details
Syllables
3
ra · re · ly
Letters
6
r · a · r · e · l · y
Scrabble
9
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “rarely”
The word “rarely” contains 3 syllables, divided as ra · re · ly. It has 6 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "rarely" have?
"rarely" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "rarely" into syllables?
"rarely" is divided into syllables as: ra · re · ly.
What is the Scrabble score for "rarely"?
The Scrabble score for "rarely" is 9 points.
Using “rarely” in writing
Three-syllable words like "rarely" (ra · re · ly) 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, “rarely” is worth 9 base points before any board multipliers. A solid mid-range score. Landing a high-value letter on a double letter square will push your total higher.