What words end in QI in Scrabble?

QI (11pts) is essentially the only standard word ending in QI. In SOWPODS, WAQF-derived forms and QI itself are valid. It remains the rarest word ending in competitive Scrabble.

Is QI the only word ending in QI?

In the TWL dictionary used in North American tournaments, QI is the only word with this ending. SOWPODS includes a few additional entries, but QI is by far the most commonly played.

How do you play QI effectively in Scrabble?

Play QI on a Double or Triple Letter Score under the Q for 20-31 points. It pairs well as a parallel play forming two 2-letter words simultaneously. Also use it to hook onto existing I words.

Scrabble Words Ending in QI

Updated June 22, 2026 · 3 min read

QI is a game-changer. This tiny 2-letter word — meaning "life force" in Chinese philosophy — is worth 11 points base and is one of the most played words in competitive Scrabble. Let's look at how to maximize its value.

11pts
QI base score

10pts
Q tile value

31pts
QI on TLS (Q)

The QI Word Entry

Word	Points	Dictionary	Definition
QI	11	TWL + SOWPODS	The vital force in Chinese philosophy

Quick Insight

QI was added to the Official Scrabble Players Dictionary in 2006. Before that, players with Q and no U were nearly stuck. Today, QI is among the most commonly played words in tournament games, appearing in roughly 1 in 3 competitive matches.

Premium Square Scoring

QI's power comes from placement. Here's what it scores on different premium squares:

Placement	Score	Calculation
No premium	11	Q(10) + I(1) = 11
DLS on Q	21	Q(20) + I(1) = 21
TLS on Q	31	Q(30) + I(1) = 31
DWS	22	(10+1) × 2 = 22
TWS	33	(10+1) × 3 = 33

Strategy for Playing QI

Strategy Tips

Parallel plays: Place QI next to an existing word so both the Q and I form valid 2-letter crosswords. This can double your score.
Hook onto I: If the board has a word ending in I, drop Q in front for an instant 11+ points.
Don't hold Q too long: Play QI early if no U appears. A stuck Q at game-end costs you 10 points.
QI + another word: The best QI plays also form a second word simultaneously, like QI/IS or QI/IT.

Other Q-Without-U Words

If you have Q without U, these words also save you:

QI 11pts QOPH 18pts QADI 14pts QAID 14pts QANAT 14pts QINTAR 15pts