The question of a particular three-letter string’s validity in the game of Scrabble hinges on its presence in the official Scrabble dictionary. For example, common words like “cat” and “hat” are acceptable, while less common or invented combinations are not. Determining a word’s legitimacy is essential for fair gameplay.
Knowing which letter combinations are permissible is crucial for competitive Scrabble play. A valid word allows players to score points, strategize placement on the board for bonus squares, and challenge opponents’ invalid plays. The official Scrabble dictionary serves as the ultimate arbiter, providing a standardized lexicon that prevents disputes and ensures fair competition. This lexicon has evolved over time, reflecting changes in language and usage.