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Fix Word Online Not Counting Thai Text Correctly
Question details
The user needs an accurate word count for Thai text in Word for the web, which currently treats entire sentences as a single word.
- Product
- Microsoft Word Online
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Checking the word count of a document containing Thai text online.
- Observed behavior
- Word Online significantly undercounts Thai text, counting approximately 200 words as only 24, due to treating full sentences without spaces as single words.
Before proceeding, confirm that your document is primarily in Thai and take note of the current word count displayed in Word Online for comparison.
Open the Document in Desktop Word
The desktop version of Word features advanced language support and accurately counts Thai text.
Because Word for the web lacks the complex language processing algorithms required to identify word boundaries in Thai, switching to the desktop application is the most immediate and reliable workaround.
Navigate to your document in Word for the web and ensure it is fully loaded.
Click on the 'Editing' or 'Viewing' dropdown button on the top ribbon, then select 'Open in Desktop App'.
Once the document opens in the Microsoft Word desktop application, look at the status bar at the bottom of the window to see the accurate word count.
Submit Feedback to Microsoft
Report the issue to help Microsoft prioritize fixing Thai language support in Word Online.
Use WPS Office for Accurate Word Counts
If you don't have a paid Microsoft Word desktop license, WPS Office is a free, lightweight alternative that fully supports accurate word counts for complex languages like Thai. It offers seamless format compatibility and an easy-to-use interface.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free WPS Office suite.
- 2. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing .docx file containing the Thai text.
- 3. View accurate count: Check the status bar at the bottom left of the screen to view the correct word count instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word Online count Thai sentences as one word?
Word Online currently lacks the advanced language processing algorithms required to accurately identify word boundaries in Thai. Because Thai text does not use spaces between words, the web version simply counts continuous characters until it hits a space, treating entire sentences as a single word.
Can I fix the Thai word count issue without leaving my browser?
Currently, there is no built-in fix or setting in Word Online to correct this issue. You must use a desktop word processor, such as the Microsoft Word desktop app or WPS Office, to get an accurate word count.
Are other languages affected by this word count bug in Word for the web?
Yes, other languages that do not use spaces to separate words, such as Khmer, Lao, or Myanmar, may face similar word counting inaccuracies when processed by basic web-based text editors.
