Word Links
Shortcuts: Ctrl+P pause · Ctrl+M sound · Enter play again
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Resets every Monday (UTC).
About Word Links
Word Links is a word-chain duel against the computer. The computer starts with a word, and you must reply with a new word that begins with the last letter of the one before. Then the computer answers in the same way, and the chain grows longer. No word can be used twice, and your turn is timed, so you need to think of something quickly.
It suits anyone who likes vocabulary games, from older children to adults, and a round lasts about two to six minutes. A strong run is a long chain where you pick longer words, finish with fast answers for time bonuses, and steer the computer toward awkward letters that leave it short of options.
How to play Word Links
- Look at the prompt, which names the letter your next word must start with.
- Type a real everyday English word that starts with that letter and press Enter.
- Wait for the computer to reply, then use the last letter of its word to continue.
- Watch the timer bar at the top of your turn; it shortens as the chain grows.
- Keep going until you run out of time, or until the computer cannot find a word.
Controls
| Keyboard and mouse | Type your word in the box and press Enter, or click Submit. The input is focused for you automatically, and pressing Enter anywhere on the page returns you to the box. The Hint button is also clickable. |
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| Phone and tablet | Tap the text box to open your on-screen keyboard, type a word, and tap Submit or the keyboard's return key. Tap Hint if you are stuck. |
Scoring
Each accepted word earns 10 points per letter plus 2 points for every second left on your timer, so long, quick answers score best. A hint costs 25 points, and you can use up to three. If the computer runs out of words first, you receive a 200 point bonus and a win.
Tips and strategy
- Choose words that end in awkward letters such as k, z, w or x. They leave the computer with fewer possible replies, and the computer avoids doing the same to you only partly.
- Think in longer words. A seven letter answer is worth far more than a three letter one, and often leaves you more time on the clock too.
- Keep a small stock of go-to words for each letter in mind, such as animals, foods and objects, because the game uses a list of common everyday words.
- Your time per turn starts at 22 seconds and drops by one every three words, down to a minimum of 8. Do not waste the early, roomier turns.
- Save hints for when you are truly stuck. Each one shows the first two letters and the length, but costs 25 points and you only have three.
Word Links FAQ
▸Why was my word rejected as not in the list?
The game checks answers against a built-in list of common words of three or more letters. Rare words, plurals of unusual nouns, names and slang may not be included, so try a simpler word.
▸Does the clock run while the computer is thinking?
No. The timer only runs on your turn. While the computer is picking its word, you get a short break and the bar is paused.
▸Can I reuse a word?
No. Once a word is in the chain, whether you or the computer played it, it cannot be used again, and the game will tell you it is already used.
