The question of a three-letter string’s validity in Scrabble hinges on its presence in the official Scrabble dictionary. This lexicon contains acceptable words and their various forms. For example, common words like “cat” and “dog” are found within its pages, as are less common but valid plays like “qat” and “zag.” Whether a specific combination of letters constitutes a playable word depends solely on its inclusion in this authoritative source.
Understanding word validity is fundamental to successful Scrabble play. Knowing which letter combinations are acceptable allows players to maximize their score and strategize effectively. The official dictionary’s role as arbiter ensures fair play and maintains the game’s integrity. Historical precedent, derived from the game’s development and evolution, underscores the significance of the official word list in preventing disputes and maintaining a standardized lexicon.