How many syllables in “shortage”?
syllables in "shortage"
Word details
Syllables
2
shor · tage
Letters
8
s · h · o · r · t · a · g · e
Scrabble
12
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “shortage”
The word “shortage” contains 2 syllables, divided as shor · tage. It has 8 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "shortage" have?
"shortage" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "shortage" into syllables?
"shortage" is divided into syllables as: shor · tage.
What is the Scrabble score for "shortage"?
The Scrabble score for "shortage" is 12 points.
Using “shortage” in writing
Two-syllable words like "shortage" (shor · tage) are the building blocks of iambic rhythm — the most common meter in English poetry. If the stress falls on the second syllable (da-DUM), it forms a perfect iamb, ideal for sonnets and iambic pentameter. It also fits neatly into the 5- or 7-syllable lines of a haiku.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “shortage” is worth 12 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.