Word games can be a lot of fun. However, they can also be difficult to win. You usually need a very broad vocabulary to be able to outdo one’s opponents in competitive word games for adults. However, there are a few tactics that you can use to come out on top even without one.
Learning these tactics can make you a more indomitable force wherever you play, be it in person or online. This post will explore this topic in more detail, explaining a few tips that you can use to ensure that you win when you play your next word game.
Word Unscrambler Tools
The most effective way of overcoming your opponents when you are playing word games is to use a word unscrambler tool. These tools allow you to enter a set of letters, then unscramble words and see every possible option. Typically, these tools are not regarded as a form of cheating when you are playing competitive word games. The reason for this is that all players are allowed a set number of uses, i.e., two or three in a game. The use of word scrambler tools is akin to the ‘phone-a-friend’ option in game shows. If you plan on using word unscrambler tools, make sure that you do so effectively and strategically. Ensure that you only use them when you have no other option.
Limit Words to Five Letters
When you are playing word games, your focus shouldn’t just be on winning, you also need to think about blocking your opponents. Shorter words prevent the people you are playing against from being able to achieve double and triple bonuses. They also ensure gameplay stays in the center of the board, giving you more room to breathe. Four or five-letter words help you to control point margins and obstruct the people you are playing against. Something worth noting is that shorter words are typically much easier to come up with, as well. If you are planning on using them, make sure that you only seize the opportunity to fill longer words when you are nearing the end of the game and you have already racked up points. Monopolize on long words guessed by other players of the game, as well.
Have Patience
Patience is essential if you want to win word games. You’re not guaranteed to spot any words that you recognize right away. However, the more you play, the more likely you are to encounter words. Whilst word games are point-based, patience is still important, because it will help you to play more strategically. Make sure that you pay attention to the words your friends are guessing as well. You can use them to obtain double and triple bonuses. As mentioned above, you shouldn’t immediately rush to make long word combinations. Instead, you should spend most of the game focused on shorter ones. Patience can benefit you in other areas of your life, as well. Unfortunately, people tend to have none today. This is in part due to the prevalence of short-form content and ease of the internet. You don’t have to be patient, because everything is easily obtainable.
Play to Your Strengths
What are your strengths? Everybody has their own unique strengths. If you have a very large vocabulary, play into that. Conversely, if you are somebody with an interest in history, you can use your knowledge of history to make word combinations that people might not be able to, i.e., the names of weapons or tools utilized in warfare. Playing to your strengths is the best way to come out on top when you are playing competitive word games. Remember: Everybody you are playing against is going to be employing their strengths. Letting yours go to waste is a great shame and will negatively impact your performance. Using your strengths to come out on top is something that can benefit you in every single game you play and in daily life.
Verifying People’s Words
It is not uncommon for people playing word games to either make words up or to take liberties and misspell the words they are putting forward, especially when they are spelling long words. If there is a word somebody is suggesting that you are unsure about, make sure that you verify it. It’s fairly normal for people to have dictionaries to hand when they are playing word games. If nobody has brought one, use your phone. Verifying people’s word choices can help prevent cheating. Make sure that if you do catch players cheating, you penalize them. People typically remove points from other players that they identify as cheats.
Increase Your Vocabulary
If you enjoy playing word games, now’s the time to start working on your vocabulary. Building your vocabulary is an extremely effective way for you to ensure that you win every single time you sit down with your friends and start playing. There are many different ways to increase your vocabulary, from reading books to signing up for word-of-the-day newsletters. Building your vocabulary won’t just benefit you on the Scrabble board, however. It’ll also make you sound smarter and increase your chances of getting ahead in life. Intelligence is one of the main markers of success, so becoming more intelligent and building your vocabulary has obvious benefits.
Team Up with People
Finally, consider teaming up with people. It’s not uncommon for players of word games to coordinate together, sabotaging the people they are playing against. You can either team up obviously or play with another person in secret. If you plan on teaming up, it’s something you need to discuss before you actually start playing. Make sure that you are both on the same page and employ similar strategies. It is very important to make sure you nail down mutual strategies prior to playing if you are going to do so covertly, as you might not have an opportunity to communicate after the game begins.
Word games can be a lot of fun. If you enjoy playing them, there are many different strategies you can use to outdo your opponents. Consider the guidance given here and utilize it the next time you play. Doing so will increase your chances of winning.
