How Three Words Can Pinpoint Any Location – And Why It’s Secure

Imagine giving someone a location with just three words. No numbers. No directions. Just a phrase like “sunset.bench.sand.” That’s what what3words does. It turns the world into a grid of tiny, precise squares—each 3 meters by 3 meters—using math to divide the Earth’s surface. The system starts with a simple calculation

This isn’t just about navigation. In a crisis, people need to send location info fast—without confusion or errors. What3words cuts through that hurdle. The system uses over 50 languages, pulling from common words across cultures. That means users in rural areas, or those who speak languages other than English, can still use it. The team didn’t go with all million English words—just 40,000 that are common and useful. That smart curation means the system works in real life, not just in theory. The number of possible combinations is huge—around 57 trillion for English alone. That’s not just a big number. It’s a signal that the system has enough flexibility to cover every corner of the planet without overlap or conflict.

How What3words Works: The Math and Language Behind the System

• Geometric Precision: The Earth is modeled as a sphere, and its surface area is split into 3-meter by 3-meter squares. Each square is a unique, measurable unit—small enough to avoid overlap, large enough to be practical.
• Unique Identification: Every location gets a three-word sequence, and order matters. This creates a massive number of distinct identifiers, far exceeding traditional coordinates in both precision and reliability.
• Language Flexibility: The system supports over 50 languages, using widely spoken words to ensure global access. This means users don’t need to know English to find or share a location.

In emergencies, three words can mean the difference between help arriving fast or too late. With no need for devices or apps, anyone can share a precise location—just by saying the right words. That’s not just smart design. It’s a practical, secure way to locate anything on Earth.