Qi. A Chinese word meaning the vital force inherent in all things, and for many, not a word used in everyday vocabulary. But for junior Kathryn Nobles, this word has been proven vital in her numerous games of “Words with Friends.”

“Words with Friends” is a popular game on the iPhone that follows the same rule set as “Scrabble,” but repackaged for the iPhone’s app system. The game allows iPhone owners to challenge friends to a “Scrabble” match, while also having a chat box to talk to friends while playing.

Nobles is an avid player of”Words with Friends” and can often been seen playing at lunch, after school or even glancing at her iPhone during class.

“I like the interaction with other people and seeing what words they come up with,” said Nobles. “I learn new words, like qi, and I’m able to use them in my [other] games.”

Nobles typically plays up to eight games of “Words with Friends” simultaneously, and each game lasts for three to four days (depending on the response time of her challengers).

“The chat box makes the games more social,” said Nobles. “[Words with Friends] is definitely more convenient and engaging than Scrabble.”

Junior Kaitna Shankar plays with Nobles often and also shares the same love for finding new words.

“[Words with Friends] is better than scrabble because you get to play with different people who have iPhones at anytime,” said Shankar. “Games are also really competitive as to who can come up with the best words.”

To some players, “Words with Friends” can become less of a game and more of a lifestyle.
“I’ve been playing non-stop since I downloaded the game three weeks ago,” said Nobles. “I play everywhere I go–in class, while doing homework and even before I go to bed.”

The growing fad of “Words with Friends” not only serves as a competitive game for friends, but also allows players to expand their vocabulary.

“[Nobles] once got 45 points for a two-letter word!” said Shankar.

It seems qi can come in handy after all.