You have learned a word three times and still blank on it when you need it. Flashcards and cramming lists tend to fail this way. LearnThatWord is an online vocabulary and spelling trainer that tries to fix it by tracking what you already know and bringing back only the words that still give you trouble.
Quick facts
- Type: web-based vocabulary and spelling trainer
- Platforms: runs online in a browser
- Cost: free tutoring tier, with optional premium membership
- Publisher: LearnThat Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit (formerly eSpindle Learning)
- Languages: translations in 37 languages
Key features
Sessions built around the words you actually miss
You pick a goal and a starting grade level. The program checks off words you know and spends your time on the ones that need practice. Each word comes back repeatedly over time, with the aim that you know it "by heart."
Goal-based modules for tests and spelling bees
Separate tracks cover SAT words (over 5,000), TOEFL/IELTS/PTE vocabulary (over 7,000), academic vocabulary/GRE (over 2,000), commonly misspelled words (over 2,000) and spelling bee words (over 20,000). There is also a learn-English track for English language learners.
A rich dictionary built into every quiz
The built-in Open Dictionary of English gives you videos, images, pronunciations from around the world, usage examples, idioms, a thesaurus, synonyms and antonyms, rhymes, word origins, verb conjugations and tutoring comments.
Your own word lists
You can create a list, pick one from the word list archive, or email words to your account. With this setting only your added words are reviewed.
Classroom accounts for teachers
Teachers can start a free account, send words to a class online or by email, and read detailed reports on student progress.
Rewards and a results guarantee
Rewards and prizes keep you going. The vendor says it is confident enough in the results to guarantee them.
Who it's for
- Students preparing for the SAT, GRE, TOEFL or IELTS.
- Spelling bee contestants who need a large, managed word pool.
- English language learners who want words in context, with translations.
- Teachers who want to assign words and track a class.
- Anyone who wants to build vocabulary privately, without grades or pressure.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free tutoring tier, so you can try it before paying.
- Adaptive review focuses on words you struggle with.
- Modules for several tests, plus your own lists.
- Very detailed dictionary resources inside quizzes.
- Run by a nonprofit; premium fees support its literacy campaign.
Cons
- It is online only, so you need an internet connection.
- Some premium features sit behind a paid membership.
- The claim of results "10x faster" than other tools is the vendor's own.
FAQs
Is LearnThatWord free?
The vendor offers free tutoring and lets you upgrade to premium at any time.
Can I study my own words?
Yes. Add words yourself, email them to your account, or choose a list from the archive.
Is it suitable for English learners?
Yes. There is a dedicated learn-English track, and the dictionary has translations in 37 languages.
Can teachers use it with a class?
Yes. Teachers can start a free account, send words to students and review performance.
Do I need to install anything?
No. It works online in a browser.
System requirements
An internet connection and a modern web browser.