S

How many syllables in “selective”?

3

syllables in "selective"

selective
database

Word details

Syllables

3

sel · ect · ive

Letters

9

s · e · l · e · c · t · i · v · e

Scrabble

14

points

Common word

Scrabble letter values

s1
e1
l1
e1
c3
t1
i1
v4
e1

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About the word “selective

The word selective contains 3 syllables, divided as sel · ect · ive. It has 9 letters.

FAQ

How many syllables does "selective" have?

"selective" has 3 syllables.

How do you divide "selective" into syllables?

"selective" is divided into syllables as: sel · ect · ive.

What is the Scrabble score for "selective"?

The Scrabble score for "selective" is 14 points.

Using “selective” in writing

Three-syllable words like "selective" (sel · ect · ive) 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, selective is worth 14 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.

Anagrams of “selective

The letters in selective can be rearranged to spell 2 other words: cleveites, electives.

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