You have a word list, a spelling test or an English exam coming up, and flashcards aren't sticking. LearnThatWord is an online vocabulary and spelling trainer that builds each session around the words you personally find hard.
Quick facts
- Vendor: eSpindle Learning (nonprofit)
- Runs: online, in your browser
- Plans: free tier plus a premium individual plan, with family and organization plans
- Premium price: listed at $2.49 to $9.50 per month, with a satisfaction guarantee
- Free tier: 10 words per session
Key features
Sessions built around the words you struggle with
The program checks off words you already know, so your time goes to the ones that need practice. Your individualized learning plan brings words back for review at set points.
A built-in dictionary with context for every word
Each quiz links to the Open Dictionary of English. It includes videos, images, pronunciations from around the world, usage examples, idioms, a thesaurus, synonyms and antonyms, rhymes, word origins, verb conjugations and translations in 37 languages.
Your own word lists, or ready-made ones
You can upload your own words or pick from a word list archive. You can also follow the built-in learning tracks.
Rewards and stats that keep you going
Premium adds rewards and prizes, performance stats, a spelling mode and emailed word lists. Sessions can be up to 500 words, against 10 on the free tier.
Free teacher accounts for classroom use
Teachers can create accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students. Schools and organizations have separate plans.
Who it's for
It suits students preparing for the SAT or a spelling bee, English language learners who want translations in their own language, and adults who want a bigger vocabulary. It also suits teachers and parents who want to assign words and track progress. The vendor says members range from 2nd grade to retirement age.
Pros and cons
- Pro: a free tier lets you try it before paying.
- Pro: the dictionary content is deep and multilingual.
- Pro: the revenue supports a nonprofit's campaigns.
- Con: it works only online, so you need a connection.
- Con: the free tier is limited to 10 words per session and has slower sessions.
- Con: some premium features, such as cramming mode and writing practice, are marked as coming soon.
FAQs
Do I need to install anything?
No. It runs online in a browser.
Can I use my own words?
Yes. You can upload your own list or choose one from the archive.
Is there a free version?
Yes. The free tier gives you sessions of 10 words, and premium raises that to as many as 500.
Can teachers use it with a class?
Yes. Teachers can make free accounts, form classes, review performance and send words to students.
System requirements
Internet access and a web browser.