Understanding Scrabble Word Lists: NWL, CSW, and OSPD Explained

https://rackandboard.currentvale.com/posts/understanding-scrabble-word-lists-nwl-csw-and-ospd-explained

If you've ever wondered why some words work in Scrabble tournaments but not casual games, it comes down to three main word lists. NWL (North American) is for standard tournament play in the US and Canada, while CSW (Collins Scrabble Words) is used internationally and includes many more words. OSPD, the Official Scrabble Players Dictionary, is a subset meant for home games and school use. Each list shapes the game differently, affecting strategy and which obscure words you can legally play.