The Q Tile Problem (And Solution)
Getting stuck with a Q tile and no U is one of the most frustrating experiences in Scrabble. The Q is worth 10 points—great when you can use it, but it counts against you if stuck on your rack at game end.
Good news: There are 30+ valid Q words that don't need U. Memorizing these transforms the Q from a liability into an asset.
Essential Q-Without-U Words
The Most Important: QI (11 points)
QI is the single most important word in Scrabble. It means "life force" in Chinese philosophy (also spelled chi or ki). At just 2 letters, you can play it almost anywhere.
QI appears in nearly every competitive Scrabble game. It's short, scores 11 points, and fits in tight spaces. This should be the first Q-no-U word you memorize.
Other Key Words
QOPH (18 pts) - The 19th letter of the Hebrew alphabet
QADI (14 pts) - An Islamic judge
QAID (14 pts) - Variant of qadi
QAT (12 pts) - A shrub chewed as a stimulant in Arabia
QANAT (14 pts) - An underground irrigation tunnel
QINTAR (15 pts) - Albanian monetary unit
TRANQ (14 pts) - Short for tranquilizer
FAQIR (17 pts) - A Muslim or Hindu holy man
SUQ (12 pts) - An open-air marketplace (ends with Q!)
Strategy Tips for Q Tiles
- Play Q early - Don't wait for the perfect play. A 20-point Q word is better than holding it forever.
- Position for premium squares - QI on a Triple Letter Square scores 31 points!
- Keep I and A tiles - These combine with Q for QI, QAT, QADI
- Learn QOPH variations - QOPH, QADI, QAID, QANAT all use common letters
Complete Q-No-U List
2-3 Letters
QI, QAT, SUQ
4 Letters
QOPH, QADI, QAID, QATS, SUQS
5 Letters
QORMA, QANAT, QADIS, QAIDS, QIBLA, TRANQ, FAQIR
6+ Letters
QINTAR, QINDAR, QIVIUT, QAWWALI, SHEQEL, TRANQS, FAQIRS
See our full Q Words Without U page for definitions and point values, or use our Scrabble Helper to find Q plays.