Printable word games
Two letter games that start from your own words: word searches hide your list in a grid, crosswords draw a grid from your words and your clues. Each one also offers three ready-made themes to start with a single click. Pick the size of the grid, add or remove words, then download a PDF with the solution. The table below helps you choose between the two.
Word search
CrosswordWhich one to choose?
Sizes, word limits and the place of the solutions are those on the game pages; ages are rough guides, and the time depends on your list and on practice.
| Game | From age | Time per grid | Levels or sizes | Grids per page | Solutions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Word search | 7 | depends on your list | 10 × 10, 15 × 15 or 20 × 20, 3 levels, 20 words at most | 1 | next page, words circled |
| Crossword | 9 | depends on your list | 9 × 9, 13 × 13 or 17 × 17, 40 lines at most | 1 | at the end of the PDF |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my own word list?
Yes, that is the idea of both games. For word searches, type one word per line, up to 20 words of at least 3 letters. For crosswords, type one “word : clue” per line, up to 40 lines. Accents and spaces are removed from the words, and your list stays in your browser.
Which themes are offered?
Three ready-made themes for each game: animals, school and Christmas. One click fills the list, and you can then edit it as you like: add the names of the class, the week's vocabulary or the guests of a birthday party.
Can they be used in class?
Yes, freely, in class, at home or for a party, including printing in bulk. Only reselling the files is not allowed. For a class, print the grid in bulk and the solution page just once.
What is the difference between word searches and crosswords?
In a word search, you find words that are already written in a grid of letters, from a list. In a crossword, you work out the words yourself from the clues, across and down, and write them into the numbered grid.
Where is the solution in the PDF?
In word searches, the solution, with the words circled, is on the next page. In crosswords, it is at the end of the PDF, and you can untick the box for a PDF without a solution. Print the grid first, the solution only if needed.