Create a strong, random and memorable passphrase in seconds. This free passphrase generator builds word-based passwords using multiple random words, so you get something longer, easier to type and harder to guess than many traditional short passwords.
A passphrase is a password made from several words instead of a short string of random characters. For example, a passphrase might use four, five or six unrelated words separated by hyphens, spaces, dots or another character. The goal is simple: make the password long enough to be strong, but still readable enough to use in real life.
Use the generator above to choose the number of words, adjust the separator, add capital letters, include a number or symbol, and copy your new passphrase when you are happy with it.
How to use this passphrase generator
- Choose how many words you want in your passphrase.
- Select a separator, such as a hyphen, space, underscore or dot.
- Decide whether to use lower case, capitalised words, numbers or symbols.
- Click generate to create a new random passphrase.
- Copy the result and save it somewhere secure, ideally in a password manager.
For most everyday accounts, a longer passphrase made from random words is easier to use than a short password full of awkward symbols. If a website requires a number, capital letter or symbol, you can add those options before copying your result.
What is a passphrase?
A passphrase is a type of password made from multiple words. Instead of trying to remember something like N7$qL2!p, you use a longer sequence of random words. This can make the password easier to read, easier to type and easier to remember.
The important word is random. A strong passphrase should not be a famous quote, song lyric, family name, birthday, pet name or phrase someone could guess from your social media. It should use unrelated words selected randomly.
The UK National Cyber Security Centre recommends combining random words because longer and more unusual passwords are harder to crack, while still being easier for people to remember. NIST also states that password length is a primary factor in password strength and recommends allowing long passwords, including spaces, to support passphrases.
What makes a strong passphrase?
A strong passphrase should be:
- Long: more words usually means more protection.
- Random: avoid predictable phrases or personal details.
- Unique: never reuse the same passphrase across accounts.
- Readable: it should be possible to type without constant mistakes.
- Stored safely: use a password manager where possible.
For better security, generate a different passphrase for every important account. Reusing one passphrase across multiple sites is risky because one leaked account can expose the rest.
When should you use a passphrase?
A passphrase is useful when you need a password that you may have to type manually. Common examples include:
- password manager master passwords
- Wi-Fi passwords
- admin logins
- shared device access
- accounts where copy and paste is inconvenient
- passwords you may need to enter on a TV, console or mobile device
For accounts stored fully inside a password manager, a random password with letters, numbers and symbols may still be a better option. For anything you need to remember or type yourself, a passphrase is often more practical.
Passphrase generator vs password generator
A passphrase generator creates a password from random words. A password generator usually creates a random mix of letters, numbers and symbols.
Both can be secure when generated properly. The difference is usability. Random character passwords are usually better for password managers. Random word passphrases are often better when you need something long, strong and easier to type.
If you want a traditional random password, use our secure password generator. If you want something more memorable, use this passphrase generator.
Passphrase security tips
Do not create passphrases from personal information. Avoid names, dates, addresses, football teams, favourite bands, children’s names, pet names or anything visible on your social profiles.
Do not use famous phrases or quotes. Attackers can test common phrases, song lyrics and predictable substitutions. Replacing “o” with “0” or “i” with “!” is not enough to make a weak password strong.
For stronger protection, use more random words, avoid reuse, and store important credentials in a reputable password manager.
FAQ section
Is a passphrase better than a password?
A passphrase can be better when you need something long, memorable and easier to type. A random password can also be very secure, especially when stored in a password manager. The best choice depends on how you will use it.
How many words should a passphrase have?
For general use, start with at least four random words. For more important accounts, use five or more words if the website allows it. Longer passphrases are usually stronger, provided the words are random and unrelated.
Should I use spaces in a passphrase?
Spaces can make a passphrase easier to read, but not every website accepts them. If spaces are rejected, use hyphens, underscores or dots instead.
Are passphrases safe?
Passphrases can be safe when they are long, random and unique. They become weak when they use predictable phrases, personal information or reused patterns.
Can I use the same passphrase for multiple accounts?
No. Reusing the same passphrase is a bad idea. If one account is compromised, attackers may try the same passphrase elsewhere.
What is a three random words password?
A three random words password is a passphrase made by combining three unrelated words. It is designed to be easier to remember than a complex short password while still being long enough for many everyday uses.
Is this the same as Diceware?
Diceware is a specific method for generating random passphrases using dice and a word list. EFF provides Dice-generated passphrase resources and wordlists for users who want that approach. This tool follows the same broad idea of random word-based passphrases, but you should only call it “Diceware” if it uses a Diceware-compatible wordlist and method.
- Need a traditional random password instead? Try our Secure Password Generator.
- Need a random number for a game, draw or decision? Use our Random Number Generator.
- Looking for a username to go with your new login? Try our Username Generator.