Use a word or sentence
Check a difficult word, then paste a longer passage when you need the total.
Free English writing tool
Free online syllable counter
Count syllables in a word, sentence, poem, lyric, or haiku. Review a clear word-by-word breakdown based on an American English pronunciation reference, with estimates visibly marked when a word is unknown.
Count syllables nowPrivate in your browser. Start typing to count.
Text to analyze
Paste a word, sentence, poem, or lyric.
0 characters · 0 words American English
Syllable analysis
Words use a pronunciation reference when available.
Your count will appear here.
Paste text to see totals, line counts, and each word's syllables.
Line breakdown
Word-by-word detail
A dot means the count is estimated. A range means the word has more than one common pronunciation.
How it works
Count the sounds, not the letters
English spelling is unreliable for syllables. This counter checks words against a pronunciation reference, where syllables are represented by vowel sounds. When a word has more than one recognized pronunciation, the result shows the possible range instead of hiding the uncertainty.
Review each line
Poets and songwriters can inspect the rhythm of every non-empty line.
Make the final call
Read the line aloud when an alternate or estimated pronunciation affects your result.
Practical examples
When a syllable count helps
Use the counter for poetry, classroom exercises, pronunciation practice, and writing with a strict rhythm or length requirement.
Haiku
Switch to Haiku mode to compare three lines with the common 5 / 7 / 5 pattern.
Reading and pronunciation
See whether a word is one beat or several before reading aloud or practicing new vocabulary.
Worksheets and class activities
Verify a spelling or vocabulary list before printing a learning activity.
Accuracy and privacy
A clear result, with its limits visible
The reference is based on the CMU Pronouncing Dictionary, an open machine-readable resource for North American English. It is excellent for common words, but names, new words, intentional poetic pronunciation, and regional speech still need a human ear. Your text never leaves this page.
Common questions
Syllable counter FAQ
How does this syllable counter work?
It checks recognizable English words against a pronunciation reference, counts the vowel sounds in each pronunciation, and adds the results. Unrecognized words receive a clearly marked estimate.
Why can a word have more than one syllable count?
Some English words are pronounced differently by region, meaning, or speaking style. When the reference lists more than one count, this tool shows the possible range so you can choose the pronunciation that fits your writing.
Can I use this for a haiku?
Yes. Select Check haiku, enter three non-empty lines, and the tool compares their counts with the common 5 / 7 / 5 pattern. Read the words aloud before finalizing a poem because poetry can use intentional pronunciation changes.
Is my text uploaded?
No. The text and syllable analysis stay in your browser. The pronunciation reference is a static public file; your writing is not sent to a server.
Does it support languages other than English?
This first version is designed for American English. Other languages have different syllable rules and should use a language-specific counter.
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