Learn vocabulary without wasting time on words you already know
Most vocabulary apps drill you on the same easy words until you're bored. LearnThatWord works the other way. It checks off the words you know and spends your time on the ones that need practice. It runs in your browser and comes from the nonprofit eSpindle Learning.
Quick facts
- Type: online vocabulary and spelling trainer
- Platforms: any browser with internet access
- Price: a free tier, plus a premium individual plan that the vendor lists at $2.49 to $9.50 per month
- Guarantee: 100% satisfaction guarantee on the premium plan
- Vendor: eSpindle Learning (nonprofit)
Key features
A learning plan built around your goal and skill level
You pick a goal, such as improving your English, winning a spelling bee or preparing for the SAT. You also estimate your skill level. The program then guides you toward that goal, and its WordGenie coach lays out the next steps.
Over 150,000 words with audio, images and translations
Each word comes with audio, images, definitions, usage samples, tutoring comments and links to online resources. Translations in 37 languages help English learners. The built-in Open Dictionary of English also covers synonyms, antonyms, rhymes, word origins and verb conjugations.
Your own word lists
You can upload your own list of words or pick a ready-made list from the word list archive. You can also request priority words.
Rewards, diplomas and progress tracking
Motivation comes from rewards, diplomas and progress tracking. Premium adds performance stats and email reminders.
Free classroom accounts for teachers
Teachers can create free accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students.
Free vs. premium
The free tier gives you 10 words per session at good session speed. Premium allows up to 500 words per session at priority speed. It also adds spelling mode, rewards and prizes, performance stats, emailing words to your account and email reminders. Family and organization plans are sold separately.
Who it's for
- English language learners who want translations and audio.
- Students preparing for the SAT or a spelling bee.
- People with learning disabilities who need short, targeted sessions.
- Teachers who want to assign words and watch class progress.
- Adults who want a bigger vocabulary. The vendor says members range from 2nd grade to retirement age.
Pros and cons
- Pro: a free tier lets you try it first.
- Pro: the very large word database comes with audio and translations.
- Pro: sessions are tailored to what you struggle with.
- Pro: revenue supports a nonprofit's campaigns.
- Con: free sessions are capped at 10 words.
- Con: some premium features, such as cramming mode and a custom review cycle, are still marked "coming soon".
- Con: it needs an internet connection, so it isn't an offline tool.
FAQs
Do I need to install anything?
No. It runs online in any browser.
Can I use my own words?
Yes. You can upload a list or choose one from the word list archive.
Is there a free option?
Yes. The free tier allows 10 words per session. Premium raises that to as many as 500.
Can a teacher use it with a class?
Yes. Teachers can make free accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students.
What if I don't like it?
The premium plan carries a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
System requirements
Internet access and any web browser.