Why X Is the Best Power Tile
Here's a secret that separates intermediate players from experts: X is better than Z. Both are worth 8 and 10 points respectively, but X has five 2-letter words (AX, EX, OX, XI, XU) compared to Z's one (ZA). That means X can be played parallel to almost any existing word, creating multiple cross-words and racking up points from a seemingly impossible board position.
Drawing X should make you smile, not worry. With the right vocabulary, you'll find a profitable X play on virtually any board state.
2-Letter X Words (5 words — memorize all)
AX — A chopping tool (also valid as AXE). EX — A former spouse; the letter X. OX — A domesticated bovine. XI — The 14th Greek letter. XU — A Vietnamese monetary unit.
3-Letter X Words (25+ essential)
X at the end (most common pattern)
X at the beginning or middle
4-Letter X Words (20 power picks)
5-6 Letter X Words (high-impact)
The Parallel Play Masterclass
X's real power shines in parallel plays. Here's how it works:
Suppose the word RATE is on the board horizontally. You place AX vertically so that the A sits next to R and the X sits next to A. You've now formed: AX (your word) + AR (cross-word) + XA... wait, XA isn't a word. This is where knowing all five 2-letter X words is critical — you need to verify that every cross-word formed is legal.
- X next to A = AX or XA? Only AX is valid. Place X to the RIGHT of A.
- X next to E = EX or XE? Only EX is valid. Place X to the RIGHT of E.
- X next to I = XI or IX? Only XI is valid. Place X to the LEFT of I.
- X next to O = OX or XO? Only OX is valid. Place X to the RIGHT of O.
- X next to U = XU or UX? Only XU is valid. Place X to the LEFT of U.
X on Premium Squares
Because X words are so short and flexible, you'll frequently land X on premium squares:
- X on TLS: 24 points for the X tile alone. Even a simple AX with X on TLS scores 25.
- X on DLS: 16 + companion letter. AX on DLS = 17.
- Cross-word bonus: A parallel play where X hits a TLS and forms TWO words can easily score 40+ total.