You have studied a word list three times and still blank on the same words when you need them. Flashcards and cramming bring back words you already know and skip the ones that keep slipping. LearnThatWord is an online vocabulary and spelling trainer that checks off the words you know and spends your time on the ones you don't.
Quick facts
- Type: online vocabulary and spelling trainer that runs in a browser
- Made by: eSpindle Learning, a nonprofit
- Word bank: over 150,000 words, with translations in 37 languages
- Free tier: available, limited to 10 words per session
- Premium individual plan: $2.49-$9.50 per month, with a satisfaction guarantee
- Other plans: family and organization plans, plus free teacher accounts
Key features
A coach called WordGenie that picks your next words
You choose a goal, such as learning vocabulary by grade level, practicing your own list, or preparing for a spelling bee. WordGenie then sorts words by grade level, frequency and difficulty and moves you forward in steps. The site suggests starting two or three grades below your real grade, until you get around 80% of words right.
Your own word lists, uploaded or emailed
You can build a list, pick one from the word list archive, or email words to your account. With your own list selected, only the words you added are reviewed and nothing else is introduced.
A dictionary built into every quiz
Each word comes with definitions, pronunciations from around the world, usage examples, images, synonyms and antonyms, rhymes, word origins, verb conjugations and tutoring comments. Translations cover 37 languages.
Spelling bee preparation
The word bank includes over 20,000 typical spelling bee words, and championship words are added every year.
Rewards and progress tracking
Premium members get rewards and prizes and performance stats. Sessions are short and private, with no grades.
Classroom tools for teachers
Teachers can create free accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students.
Who it's for
- Students preparing for spelling bees or building vocabulary for school.
- English language learners who want translations in their own language.
- Teachers who want to assign word lists and see how a class is doing.
- Adults who want to build vocabulary on their own schedule.
Pros and cons
Pros
- A free tier lets you try it before paying.
- Premium costs only a few dollars a month.
- Sessions target the words you struggle with.
- Runs in a browser, with no installation.
- Revenue supports a nonprofit's literacy campaigns.
Cons
- The free tier is limited to 10 words per session and has no spelling mode, rewards or performance stats.
- Several features, such as cramming mode and writing practice, are only marked as coming soon.
- It needs an internet connection.
FAQs
Is there a free version?
Yes. The free tier includes tutoring, but sessions are capped at 10 words and premium features such as spelling mode and rewards are not included.
Can I use my own words?
Yes. You can create a list, choose one from the archive, or email words to your account.
Can teachers use it with a class?
Yes. Teachers can create free accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students.
Is there a guarantee?
The premium individual plan is listed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
System requirements
An internet connection and a web browser.