You have looked at a word like "necessary" a dozen times and still can't say whether it has one c or two. Flashcard apps keep showing you the words you already know and bury the ones that trip you up. LearnThatWord is an online vocabulary and spelling trainer built to fix that. It checks off the words you know and spends your time on the ones that need work.
Quick facts
- Type: web-based vocabulary and spelling trainer, so you use it in a browser
- Vocabulary: over 150,000 words with audio, images, definitions and usage examples
- Translations: 37 languages
- Plans: a free tier and a premium individual plan from $2.49 to $9.50 per month, with a satisfaction guarantee
- Also available: family and organization plans, plus free teacher accounts
- Made by: LearnThat Foundation (formerly eSpindle Learning), a 501(c)3 nonprofit
Key features
Sessions built around the words you actually miss
You pick a goal, such as improving English, the Spelling Bee or the SAT, and estimate your level. The program then builds each session for you. It marks the words you know and brings the harder ones back for review at set intervals, so your time goes to the words that need practice.
A dictionary inside every quiz
The built-in Open Dictionary of English gives you pronunciations, images, usage examples, idioms, a thesaurus, synonyms and antonyms, rhymes, word origins and verb conjugations. It also has tutoring comments and translations in 37 languages. Learning a word in context makes it easier to remember.
Your own word lists, or ready-made ones
You can upload your own list, request priority words, or choose from the word list archive. Built-in modules and learning tracks are there if you'd rather be guided.
Rewards and progress tracking that keep you coming back
The program uses rewards, diplomas and progress stats to keep you motivated over weeks, not just one session.
Classroom tools for teachers
Teachers can create free accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students.
Who it's for
The program is aimed at English language learners, students preparing for the SAT, GRE, TOEFL or IELTS, and Spelling Bee contestants. It also suits people with learning disabilities who want a paced, targeted approach. Members range from second grade to retirement age. Parents and teachers can use the family and organization plans to manage several learners.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Sessions adapt to what you already know
- Large word database with audio, images and translations in 37 languages
- Free tier, and premium costs only a few dollars a month
- Your own word lists are supported
- Nonprofit maker; membership revenue funds its campaigns
Cons
- The free tier limits you to 10 words per session and a standard session speed
- Spelling mode, rewards and prizes, performance stats and email reminders are premium features
- Several features, such as cramming mode, custom review cycle and writing practice, are listed as coming soon
- It runs online only, so you need an internet connection
FAQs
Do I need to install anything?
No. It runs in a web browser, so you need internet access and a browser.
Is there a free version?
Yes. The free tier lets you try the program. Premium adds unlimited access, spelling mode, rewards and prizes, performance stats, priority session speed and up to 500 words per session.
How much is premium?
The individual premium plan runs from $2.49 to $9.50 per month, with a satisfaction guarantee. Family and organization plans have their own checkout.
Can teachers use it with a class?
Yes. Teachers can open free accounts, form classes, review student performance and send words to students.
System requirements
Internet access and any modern web browser.