Q Words Without U

English usually pairs Q with U, but a small group of loanwords does not. These words are particularly useful in tile games when the Q tile is difficult to place. Always check the dictionary selected by your game, because accepted word lists differ.

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Useful examples

qi: Vital energy in Chinese philosophy; also written chi.
qat: A shrub whose leaves are chewed as a stimulant; also spelled khat.
qadi: A judge applying Islamic law.
qibla: The direction Muslims face during prayer.
qoph: A letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
qanat: An underground channel that carries water in arid regions.
qasida: A form of Arabic or Persian lyric poem.

Word-game strategy

Short Q words are valuable because Q often has a high tile score and limited placement options. Look for an open I or A, then check whether your game's official dictionary accepts the word. Plurals and variant spellings are especially dictionary-dependent.