Free Haiku Syllable Checker
A traditional haiku follows a 5-7-5 syllable pattern across three lines. The checker counts syllables on each line of your text and tells you whether you're hitting the target — or where you need to add or cut. For raw syllable counts on individual words, use our Syllable Counter. For five-line poems with a 5-7-5-7-7 pattern, try our Tanka Checker.
Per-line breakdown
How the Haiku Checker Works
The checker takes your text, splits it into three lines, and counts syllables on each line using an English-language heuristic. Each line is shown alongside its target (5, 7, or 5) and a status indicator (✓ for match, ↑/↓ for off).
Rules & Best Practices
1Three lines, 5-7-5 syllables
Line 1: 5 syllables. Line 2: 7 syllables. Line 3: 5 syllables. Total: 17 syllables.
2Modern haiku often relax the count
Many contemporary English haiku skip the strict syllable count and focus on a 'kigo' (seasonal word) and a 'kireji' (cutting word). Traditional Japanese haiku use 'morae' rather than English-language syllables.
3Subject matter matters too
Classical haiku evoke nature, season, and a moment of insight. Hard rules: avoid abstract concepts; use sensory detail; juxtapose two images.
4Syllable counts are approximate
English syllable counting is a heuristic — multisyllabic and unusual words may produce off-by-one results. Use the count as guidance, not gospel.
Polish Your Writing
Combine grammar checks with our Character Counter and Word Counter for a full text analysis — counts, frequency, and structure.
📊Open Character Counter