Best Apps to Learn English Vocabulary Fast (2025 Guide)

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Why Learning Vocabulary Is Hard — And How Apps Can Finally Help

If you’ve been trying to learn English vocabulary for months (or years) but keep forgetting everything you study, you’re not alone.
Most learners feel stuck because they’re using methods that simply don’t match how the brain remembers words.

Here’s the real problem:

You’re Trying to Memorize Words Your Brain Doesn’t Recognize

Most people learn vocabulary like this:

long word lists
flashcards with single words
memorizing translations
studying random vocabulary

But your brain doesn’t store words this way.

It stores phrases, contexts, situations, and meanings — not isolated words.

So of course the words disappear.

Why Vocabulary Apps Actually Work (When Used Correctly)

Modern vocabulary apps fix the biggest memory problems by using:

• Spaced Repetition (SRS)

Shows words right before you forget them → long-term memory.

• Context Learning

Teaches vocabulary inside sentences → your brain understands how it’s used.

• Native Audio + Real Voices

Improves pronunciation, rhythm, and natural usage.

• Micro-practice Sessions

Short 5–10 minute lessons you can do anywhere → consistency goes up.

• Real-Life Examples

Videos, clips, and sentences make vocabulary more memorable.

When you combine these features, vocabulary stops being “memorization” and starts becoming usable English.

But Not All Vocabulary Apps Are Equal

Some apps:

teach words without context
focus on memorization, not fluency
teach random vocabulary you’ll never use
help beginners but fail for intermediate learners
are fun, but not effective

This guide solves that.

I’ll show you:

the best vocabulary apps for beginners
the best apps for intermediate and advanced learners
the best free apps
the best SRS apps
the best apps for real-life English
the best apps for learning vocabulary in sentences
and the best speaking vocabulary apps

All tested. All explained simply. All chosen to help you improve fast.

What You’ll Get in This Guide

The 7 best vocabulary apps (2025)
What each app is good for
What each app is bad at
Who should use which app
How to combine them for maximum fluency
The perfect daily vocabulary routine
Mistakes to avoid
Expert recommendations for every level

By the end, you’ll know exactly which app fits your goals — and how to finally remember the vocabulary you learn.

Quick Summary — The Best English Vocabulary Apps (2025)

If you just want the answer quickly, here are the 7 best apps to learn English vocabulary fast — based on memory science, usability, and real effectiveness.

★ Best Overall Vocabulary App — LingQ

Why: Teaches vocabulary in real English using stories, videos, podcasts, and articles.
Best for: Intermediate & advanced learners who want natural vocabulary.

★ Best Free Vocabulary App — Memrise

Why: Real video clips of native speakers + spaced repetition.
Best for: Beginners–intermediate learners who want natural phrases.

★ Best Vocabulary App for Beginners — Duolingo

Why: Fun, simple, and easy to start.
Best for: Total beginners who want the basics (but not enough for fluency alone).

★ Best App to Learn Vocabulary in Sentences — Anki

Why: Unlimited custom flashcards + scientifically optimized spaced repetition.
Best for: Learners who want long-term memory + sentence-based learning.

★ Best App for Speaking Vocabulary — ELSA Speak

Why: Teaches pronunciation + vocabulary using AI + native audio.
Best for: Learners who want to use vocabulary in real speech.

★ Best App for Real-Life Vocabulary — YouGlish

Why: Shows how vocabulary is used in real videos (YouTube, TED, etc.).
Best for: Intermediate & advanced learners who want natural usage.

★ Best App for Phrasal Verbs — Quizlet (or Phrasal Verbs Machine)

Why: Powerful for learning high-frequency phrasal verbs with examples.
Best for: Intermediate learners who want to sound more natural.

Quick Recommendation by Level

For Beginners

Duolingo
Memrise

For Intermediate Learners

Memrise
LingQ
Quizlet

For Advanced Learners

LingQ
YouGlish
Anki

Quick Recommendation by Goal

To remember words fast: Anki

To learn words in sentences: LingQ

To improve speaking vocabulary: ELSA

To learn real-life vocabulary: YouGlish

To learn vocabulary for free: Memrise

This summary is intentionally compact, because the rest of the article will give:

pros/cons
expert review
features
routines
and comparison tables

exactly the way your content system requires.

The Science of Vocabulary — What Actually Makes Words Stick

Most English learners think they have a “bad memory.”
But memory isn’t the problem — method is.

If you understand how the brain truly learns and remembers vocabulary, everything becomes easier.
And the apps in this guide make use of these exact principles.

Here’s the simple science behind vocabulary that actually stays in your brain.

1. Your Brain Remembers Vocabulary Through Context, Not Lists

Your brain does not learn isolated words like:

“benefit”
“challenge”
“opportunity”

It remembers situations, phrases, and meaningful moments.

✔ Example of how the brain actually learns:

“This job is a great opportunity for you.”
“What are the benefits?”
“This is a big challenge, but you can do it.”

Context creates:

emotion
imagery
logic
connection

→ That’s why vocabulary learned in sentences lasts longer.

**2. Repetition Is Not Enough — You Need Spaced Repetition (SRS)**

Repeating a word 10 times right now is useless.

Your brain needs to see the word again:

tomorrow
in 3 days
in 1 week
in 1 month

This is called spaced repetition, and it is the #1 memory method used by top vocabulary apps.

Why SRS works:

strengthens memory exactly before you forget
saves time
builds long-term recall
makes vocabulary “stick” permanently

Apps like Memrise, Anki, and LingQ use this system perfectly.

3. You Remember Words Better When You Hear Them

Vocabulary becomes easier to recall when you listen to:

native pronunciation
natural rhythm
real examples

Why?

Because the brain stores sound + meaning together.

You’re not memorizing a word — you’re remembering:

how it sounded
the emotion
the tone
the moment

This is why apps with real audio/video (Memrise, YouGlish) are extremely effective.

4. The Brain Loves Patterns — Not Grammar Rules

You don’t remember:

“present perfect continuous tense”

But you do remember:

“I’ve been working…”
“I’ve been thinking…”
“I’ve been learning English…”

Your brain learns grammar and vocabulary together as pattePattern learning = faster vocabulary learning

Apps that use real sentences (LingQ, Anki, YouGlish) help you absorb patterns automatically.

5. Emotion Makes Vocabulary Memorable

You remember words from:

a funny video
a dramatic movie scene
a surprising TED Talk
a meaningful story

Emotion boosts memory.

That’s why real content beats textbooks every time.

Apps that use real stories, videos, and interesting topics make vocabulary unforgettable.

6. You Must Use Vocabulary to Keep It

Your brain forgets unused words.

Use = memory.

No use = forgetting.**

Speaking even 1–2 sentences with a new word is enough.

Apps like ELSA, Anki, and YouGlish help you use vocabulary, not just memorize it.

7. The Perfect Vocabulary Formula (Simple + Proven)

Here’s the science in one formula:

Context + Spaced Repetition + Audio + Patterns + Emotion + Usage = Fast Vocabulary Growth

This is exactly how the best vocabulary apps are designed.

And that’s why this article focuses on apps that use these principles — not apps that rely on dry memorization.

Now that the science is clear, let’s look at the best overall vocabulary app in 2025 — and why it works better than all others.

Best Overall Vocabulary App — ★ LingQ

LingQ is the most powerful vocabulary app for real fluency, not because it teaches “word lists,” but because it teaches vocabulary the same way native speakers learn:
through real stories, real videos, real articles, and real conversations.

If you want to learn vocabulary that you can actually use in speaking, LingQ is the #1 choice.

What Makes LingQ Different (and Better Than Most Apps)

Most vocabulary apps teach words.
LingQ teaches English — and vocabulary grows naturally.

Here’s what makes it so effective:

✔ 1. You learn vocabulary inside real content

You don’t study random words.
You learn from:

stories
podcasts
YouTube videos
real English articles
lessons created by teachers

This gives your brain context, which is the most powerful memory tool.

✔ 2. Every new word becomes a “LingQ”

You tap a word → it turns yellow → LingQ saves it for review.

It’s effortless.

You slowly build a personal dictionary of the words you need — not words chosen by a textbook.

✔ 3. Built-in spaced repetition (SRS)

LingQ automatically schedules your vocabulary reviews so they appear right before you forget them, using true SRS timing.

This creates long-term memory — with no extra work.

✔ 4. You control the content

You can import:

YouTube videos
Netflix subtitles
articles
books
PDFs
transcripts

Meaning you learn vocabulary from content you enjoy, not boring textbook lessons.

✔ 5. Vocabulary actually sticks

Because you see the same word:

in different sentences
in different contexts
from different speakers
in different topics

This is the most natural way to build a large vocabulary quickly.

Who LingQ Is Best For

Best for:

Intermediate learners
Advanced learners
Learners who love reading or watching videos
Learners who want natural, real-life English
People who want long-term vocabulary memory
Anyone tired of traditional flashcards

Not ideal for:

absolute beginners
people who want a game-style app like Duolingo
learners who dislike reading/listening

What You Can Learn on LingQ

You learn vocabulary through:

stories
real conversations
graded readers
YouTube tutorials
interviews
news articles

You also learn:

grammar naturally
patterns
pronunciation
collocations
idioms
phrasal verbs

LingQ builds real fluency — not academic knowledge.

Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

best app for real vocabulary fluency
uses real English content, not dry lessons
excellent SRS system
learn phrases, not isolated words
highly customizable
perfect for reading & listening
great for intermediate → advanced learners

✘ Cons

not ideal for total beginners
interface can feel overwhelming at first
less “fun” than game-style apps
requires consistency for best results

The Ideal LingQ Routine (YourEnglishGuide Method)

🔹 10-Minute Routine (Beginner-Intermediate)

Read/listen to 1–2 minutes of content
Highlight new words (LingQs)
Review 10–15 LingQs
Shadow 1 short sentence

🔹 20-Minute Routine (Intermediate)

Read/listen 5 minutes
Create LingQs for phrases
Review SRS cards
Shadow 2–3 sentences
Write 2 new sentences using today’s vocabulary

🔹 30-Minute Routine (Advanced)

Watch/import a YouTube video
Read transcript while listening
Create LingQs for patterns + collocations
Review SRS
Speak for 2–3 minutes using today’s new phrases

Expert Recommendation (Why We Rank It #1)

LingQ is the best vocabulary app because it mirrors how languages are learned naturally:

you get massive input
you learn vocabulary in context
you absorb grammar automatically
you see words repeatedly
you learn from content you enjoy
you build real, active fluency

If you’re serious about improving your vocabulary in a way that lasts, LingQ is unmatched.

Best Free Vocabulary App — ★ Memrise

If you want an English vocabulary app that is fun, free, and scientifically effective, Memrise is the best choice in 2025.

Memrise doesn’t just show you words — it teaches vocabulary using real video clips of native speakers, spaced repetition, and natural phrases you can use right away.

This is why it’s consistently rated the best free vocabulary learning app for English learners.

Why Memrise Works So Well for Vocabulary

Memrise uses a combination of SRS, native speaker videos, and contextual phrases — the perfect combination for memory.

Here’s what makes it powerful:

✔ 1. Real Native Speakers in Every Lesson

Memrise includes thousands of short, natural clips where real people say:

everyday words
common phrases
natural intonation
real pronunciation

These short videos massively boost memory because your brain remembers faces + voices + context, not text.

✔ 2. Spaced Repetition (SRS) Built In

Memrise automatically shows you vocabulary:

right before you forget it
at the perfect intervals
based on your personal progress

This builds long-term recall effortlessly.

✔ 3. Phrases Instead of Single Words

Unlike many apps, Memrise teaches:

“Can I get a coffee?”
“I’m looking for…”
“That sounds good!”

This makes vocabulary more useful, not academic.

✔ 4. Micro-Lessons You Can Do Anytime

Lessons are 1–3 minutes each.

Perfect for:

on the bus
during lunch
waiting in line
before bed

Memrise is ideal for busy learners.

Who Memrise Is Best For

Best for:

beginners
low-intermediate learners
learners who want fun, easy progress
visual learners
anyone who wants to memorize vocabulary fast

Not ideal for:

advanced learners (limited high-level content)
learners who want deep grammar explanations
people who prefer reading-based learning (LingQ is better)

What You Can Learn on Memrise

Vocabulary you will learn:

everyday phrases
common verbs
shopping, travel, social language
natural conversation expressions
real-life English

You also improve:

pronunciation
listening
confidence
recall speed

Memrise makes English feel lighter and more fun.

Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

completely free version available
huge amount of useful vocabulary
real native-speaker videos
fun, game-like interface
SRS memory system
short, easy lessons
great for beginners

✘ Cons

not enough advanced vocabulary
less depth than LingQ or Anki
some phrases feel too simple for upper levels
can feel repetitive

The Ideal Memrise Routine (YourEnglishGuide Method)

🔹 5-Minute Routine

Learn 3–5 new phrases
Watch native clips
Quick review

🔹 10-Minute Routine

Learn 5–10 phrases
Review SRS vocabulary
Shadow 1–2 video clips

🔹 20-Minute Routine

Learn new phrases
Review SRS
Practice speaking those phrases aloud
Shadow 2–3 videos
Quick quiz session

Expert Recommendation (Why We Rank It #1 for Free Apps)

Memrise is the most effective completely free vocabulary app because it teaches:

real English
real pronunciation
real phrases
SRS-based memory
practical vocabulary you will actually use

It’s ideal for beginners and lower-intermediate learners who want fast results without paying for a premium plan.

Best Vocabulary App for Beginners — ★ Duolingo

Duolingo is the easiest and most beginner-friendly vocabulary app in the world.
If you’re starting your English journey and want something fun, simple, and motivating, Duolingo is the best place to begin.

But it’s important to understand what Duolingo is good at — and what it isn’t.

Duolingo will help you start learning English vocabulary, but it won’t take you to fluency alone.
This section explains how to use it properly so you learn fast without getting stuck.

Why Duolingo Works Well for Beginners

✔ 1. Zero-pressure environment

Duolingo is fun, colorful, and friendly.
There is no stress, no difficult grammar, and no complicated lessons.

It builds confidence, which is essential for beginners.

✔ 2. Bite-sized lessons (1–3 minutes)

Easy to complete anytime:

commuting
waiting in line
lunch break
before bed

Consistency becomes effortless.

✔ 3. Huge amount of basic vocabulary

You will learn:

food vocabulary
everyday verbs
simple phrases
basic travel English
common nouns
beginner grammar structures

Perfect for A1–A2 learners.

✔ 4. Game-like system keeps you motivated

Duolingo uses:

streaks
XP points
levels
unlockable skills
cute animations

This keeps you practicing even when you don’t feel like studying.

✔ 5. Free and accessible

Duolingo’s free version is fully usable.
You don’t need Super Duolingo to learn beginner vocabulary.

**What Duolingo Is Not Good At (Important Reality Check)**

Duolingo is excellent for beginners, but it has clear limitations.

✘ 1. Vocabulary is often out of context

Sentences like:

“The bear drinks milk.”
“The apple is wearing a hat.”

fun, but not very useful for real English.

✘ 2. Weak speaking practice

It doesn’t teach natural pronunciation or speaking fluency.

Apps like ELSA or Preply are better for that.

✘ 3. Not suitable for intermediate → advanced learners

Once you reach B1, the progress slows down a lot.

✘ 4. Limited real-life vocabulary

Duolingo doesn’t include much:

conversational English
slang
phrasal verbs
real listening skills

You must use other apps for that (LingQ, YouGlish).

Who Duolingo Is Best For

Best for:

complete beginners
casual learners
people who enjoy game-style learning
learners who need confidence before moving to harder apps

Not ideal for:

intermediate & advanced learners
learners who want natural English
people who want fast speaking progress

What You Can Learn with Duolingo

Vocabulary:

basic nouns
essential verbs
family/friends
food
clothing
travel English
beginner grammar

Skills you develop:

foundational vocabulary
basic sentence structure
listening to slow, simple audio
confidence and routine-building

Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

fun & motivating
perfect for beginners
free to use
builds vocabulary fast
great for forming daily habits

✘ Cons

limited real-world English
repetitive
not good for speaking skills
sentences aren’t always natural
not powerful enough for intermediate learners

The Ideal Duolingo Routine (YourEnglishGuide Method)

🔹 5-Minute Routine (Busy days)

Complete 1–2 lessons
Review past vocabulary

🔹 10-Minute Routine

2–3 new lessons
Quick review
Speak each new phrase aloud

🔹 15-Minute Routine

3–4 new lessons
Practice vocabulary aloud
Shadow 1–2 sentences
Write 2 simple sentences using today’s vocabulary

This transforms Duolingo from a “fun app” into a real learning tool.

Expert Recommendation (The Clear Verdict)

Duolingo is the best vocabulary app for total beginners, especially if you’re new to English or returning after a long break.
It makes learning easy, fun, and non-intimidating.

But once you reach the A2 level, you must combine it with apps like Memrise, LingQ, or Anki to continue improving.

Best Vocabulary App for Beginners — ★ Duolingo

But it’s important to understand what Duolingo is good at — and what it isn’t.

Duolingo will help you start learning English vocabulary, but it won’t take you to fluency alone.
This section explains how to use it properly so you learn fast without getting stuck.

Why Duolingo Works Well for Beginners

✔ 1. Zero-pressure environment

Duolingo is fun, colorful, and friendly.
There is no stress, no difficult grammar, and no complicated lessons.

It builds confidence, which is essential for beginners.

✔ 2. Bite-sized lessons (1–3 minutes)

Easy to complete anytime:

commuting
waiting in line
lunch break
before bed

Consistency becomes effortless.

✔ 3. Huge amount of basic vocabulary

You will learn:

food vocabulary
everyday verbs
simple phrases
basic travel English
common nouns
beginner grammar structures

Perfect for A1–A2 learners.

✔ 4. Game-like system keeps you motivated

Duolingo uses:

streaks
XP points
levels
unlockable skills
cute animations

This keeps you practicing even when you don’t feel like studying.

✔ 5. Free and accessible

Duolingo’s free version is fully usable.
You don’t need Super Duolingo to learn beginner vocabulary.

**What Duolingo Is Not Good At (Important Reality Check)**

Duolingo is excellent for beginners, but it has clear limitations.

✘ 1. Vocabulary is often out of context

Sentences like:

“The bear drinks milk.”
“The apple is wearing a hat.”

fun, but not very useful for real English.

✘ 2. Weak speaking practice

It doesn’t teach natural pronunciation or speaking fluency.

Apps like ELSA or Preply are better for that.

✘ 3. Not suitable for intermediate → advanced learners

Once you reach B1, the progress slows down a lot.

✘ 4. Limited real-life vocabulary

Duolingo doesn’t include much:

conversational English
slang
phrasal verbs
real listening skills

You must use other apps for that (LingQ, YouGlish).

Who Duolingo Is Best For

Best for:

complete beginners
casual learners
people who enjoy game-style learning
learners who need confidence before moving to harder apps

Not ideal for:

intermediate & advanced learners
learners who want natural English
people who want fast speaking progress

What You Can Learn with Duolingo

Vocabulary:

basic nouns
essential verbs
family/friends
food
clothing
travel English
beginner grammar

Skills you develop:

foundational vocabulary
basic sentence structure
listening to slow, simple audio
confidence and routine-building

Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

fun & motivating
perfect for beginners
free to use
builds vocabulary fast
great for forming daily habits

✘ Cons

limited real-world English
repetitive
not good for speaking skills
sentences aren’t always natural
not powerful enough for intermediate learners

The Ideal Duolingo Routine (YourEnglishGuide Method)

🔹 5-Minute Routine (Busy days)

Complete 1–2 lessons
Review past vocabulary

🔹 10-Minute Routine

2–3 new lessons
Quick review
Speak each new phrase aloud

🔹 15-Minute Routine

3–4 new lessons
Practice vocabulary aloud
Shadow 1–2 sentences
Write 2 simple sentences using today’s vocabulary

This transforms Duolingo from a “fun app” into a real learning tool.

Expert Recommendation (The Clear Verdict)

Duolingo is the best vocabulary app for total beginners, especially if you’re new to English or returning after a long break.
It makes learning easy, fun, and non-intimidating.

But once you reach the A2 level, you must combine it with apps like Memrise, LingQ, or Anki to continue improving.

Best App to Learn Vocabulary in Sentences — ★ Anki

Anki is the most powerful vocabulary memorization tool ever created — but only if you use it correctly.

It’s not flashy.
It’s not cute.
It’s not “fun.”

But it is the strongest spaced-repetition system (SRS) available, used by:

polyglots
medical students
pilots
serious language learners

And it’s unmatched for learning English vocabulary inside sentences, which is the fastest way to build long-term memory.

If your goal is to remember vocabulary for life, Anki is #1.

Why Anki Is So Effective for Vocabulary

✔ 1. True Spaced Repetition (SRS) Optimized for Memory

Anki schedules reviews at the EXACT moment your brain is about to forget something.

This:

saves time
prevents forgetting
builds long-term memory
improves recall speed

It’s the most powerful SRS algorithm available.

✔ 2. You Learn Vocabulary in Full Sentences

This is Anki’s greatest strength.

Example:

Front:
“I didn’t expect that.”
(Which word means expect?)

Back:
expect = think something will happen

Because the word is inside context, your brain remembers:

meaning
tone
grammar
usage
pronunciation

This is how natives learn vocabulary.

✔ 3. You Can Create Your Own Vocabulary Cards

You can add words from:

movies
YouTube
LingQ
TikTok
conversations
reading

This gives you a personalized vocabulary bank — the type that creates rapid fluency.

✔ 4. Unlimited Downloadable Decks (Free)

You can download:

English grammar decks
phrasal verb decks
business English decks
IELTS vocabulary
common verb patterns
collocations
idioms

This saves hours of time.

✔ 5. You NEVER forget vocabulary with Anki

Anki’s SRS algorithm is so strong that vocabulary becomes part of your permanent memory.

You simply cannot get this effect from Duolingo or Memrise.

Who Anki Is Best For

Best for:

serious English learners
intermediate learners
advanced learners
learners preparing for IELTS/TOEFL
people who want deep, long-term vocabulary knowledge
learners who love efficiency

Not ideal for:

complete beginners
learners who want a game-style interface
people who dislike flashcards
learners who won’t review daily

What You Can Learn with Anki

Vocabulary Types:

everyday vocabulary
phrasal verbs
idioms
collocations
advanced academic vocabulary
business English terms

Skills you can build:

fast recall
natural usage
grammar patterns
listening (if you add audio)
pronunciation (if you record yourself)

Anki can be adapted for ANY vocabulary goal.

Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

most powerful SRS in the world
incredible long-term memory
unlimited custom cards
supports audio, images, example sentences
perfect for real English vocabulary
free on desktop and Android
huge library of shared decks

✘ Cons

learning curve
no built-in content
requires consistency
not visually fun or gamified
iOS version is paid

The Ideal Anki Routine (YourEnglishGuide Method)

🔹 5-Minute Routine

Review your due cards
Add 1 new sentence
Say the sentence aloud

🔹 10-Minute Routine

Review SRS cards
Add 2–3 new sentences
Shadow each new sentence
Record yourself saying them

🔹 20-Minute Routine

Review due cards
Add vocabulary from today’s reading/listening
Add audio from YouGlish or LingQ
Shadow new sentences
Speak 1–2 minutes using the new vocabulary

This is the routine most polyglots use.

Expert Recommendation (The Clear Verdict)

Anki is the best vocabulary app for intermediate and advanced learners, especially if your goal is:

fast recall
natural usage
deep memory
long-term fluency
mastering vocabulary in context

It’s not the prettiest app — but it is the most effective.

If you use Anki daily, your vocabulary will grow faster than with any other tool.

Best App for Speaking Vocabulary — ★ ELSA Speak

Most vocabulary apps focus on memorizing words.
ELSA focuses on teaching you how to say them correctly — with:

clear pronunciation
correct stress
natural rhythm
understandable speaking
confident delivery

This makes ELSA the best app for turning vocabulary into real spoken English.

If you want to improve your accent, fluency, and speaking vocabulary at the same time, ELSA Speak is the top choice.

Why ELSA Is the Best App for Speaking Vocabulary

✔ 1. AI that analyzes your pronunciation instantly

ELSA’s AI listens to your voice and shows you:

which sounds are correct
which sounds need improvement
where your mouth placement is off
how to fix stress, timing, and rhythm

This is something no vocabulary app can match.

✔ 2. Learn vocabulary by speaking it — not memorizing it

Every new word is practiced aloud.

You don’t just read:

“recommend”
“schedule”
“thought”
“comfortable”

You say them.

This builds active vocabulary — the kind you can use in conversations.

3. Real-life speaking situations

ELSA teaches vocabulary through:

job interviews
travel conversations
daily life
business English
social English
small talk

You learn the words you’ll actually use.

✔ 4. Fixes the sounds most learners struggle with

For example:

“th”
“r/l” differences
“v” vs “w”
silent letters
confusing vowel sounds

This improves clarity and makes your vocabulary more usable.

✔ 5. Tracks speaking progress with detailed analytics

ELSA shows:

your weak sounds
your strongest areas
how your score improves
how your pronunciation compares globally

This builds motivation and consistency.

Who ELSA Is Best For

Best for:

learners who want better speaking skills
people preparing for job interviews
learners who want clear, natural pronunciation
anyone who wants vocabulary they can actually use
beginners to advanced learners

H4: Not ideal for:

learners who prefer reading-based learning
people who never practice out loud
learners looking for grammar-heavy apps

What You Can Learn with ELSA

Speaking-Focused Vocabulary:

daily conversation expressions
business English
workplace vocabulary
travel phrases
challenging academic vocabulary
common but difficult words

Skills you build:

pronunciation
fluency
rhythm
stress
intonation
confidence

This makes ELSA ideal if your goal is to speak clearly.

Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

best pronunciation AI on the market
learn vocabulary by speaking it
highly personalized feedback
great for interviews and real-life situations
improves confidence instantly
fun, interactive lessons

✘ Cons

not ideal as a primary vocabulary app (use with LingQ/Memrise)
premium subscription has the best features
not focused on reading or grammar
requires active participation (you must speak)

The Ideal ELSA Routine (YourEnglishGuide Method)

🔹 5-Minute Routine

Practice the daily lesson
Repeat 5–7 words aloud
Fix 1 pronunciation error

🔹 10-Minute Routine

Do a “Speaking Challenge”
Practice vocabulary sets
Record yourself saying new words
Shadow 2–3 sentences

🔹 20-Minute Routine

Learn 5–10 vocabulary words
Practice pronunciation with ELSA’s AI
Shadow 2–3 example sentences
Speak 1–2 minutes using the new words
Review weak sounds

This is one of the fastest ways to build active speaking vocabulary.

Expert Recommendation (The Clear Verdict)

ELSA Speak is the best vocabulary app for clear speaking and confident pronunciation.

Use it if you want to:

sound more natural
speak clearly
pronounce difficult words correctly
build active vocabulary
improve speaking for work or school

It’s the perfect companion to apps like Memrise, LingQ, or Anki.

Best Real-Life Vocabulary App — ★ YouGlish

Most vocabulary apps teach simplified English.
YouGlish teaches real English — the way native speakers actually use vocabulary in everyday speech.

It doesn’t give you definitions.
It gives you examples — thousands of them — taken from real YouTube videos, interviews, speeches, podcasts, TED Talks, and everyday conversations.

This instantly shows you:

how a word is used
when it’s used
why it’s used
the tone
the pronunciation
the rhythm
the meaning in context

If your goal is natural vocabulary fluency, YouGlish is unmatched.

Why YouGlish Is So Powerful for Vocabulary

✔ 1. You see vocabulary in real videos

You type any word or phrase, and YouGlish shows you:

clips from YouTube
real speakers
real pronunciation
real usage
real examples

This is 100× more effective than textbook-style learning.

✔ 2. Learn pronunciation the way natives actually say it

You hear:

accents
speed
connected speech
natural fillers
real-life pronunciation

No other vocabulary app gives you this level of authenticity.

✔ 3. You learn vocabulary without memorizing it

Instead of flashcards, you learn:

how a word fits in a sentence
how speakers emphasize it
how it changes meaning based on context
what tone it uses

This builds vocabulary that feels alive, not academic.

✔ 4. Perfect for intermediate → advanced learners

At this stage, you need:

collocations
natural phrases
real-life examples
authentic speaking patterns
vocabulary flexibility

YouGlish provides all of this instantly.

✔ 5. Great for grammar patterns + sentence structure

You unconsciously learn:

where words go
what grammar surrounds them
how native speakers form sentences
real patterns (instead of rules)

This is “noticing-based learning,” the fastest way to absorb grammar + vocabulary together.

Who YouGlish Is Best For

Best for:

intermediate learners
advanced learners
IELTS/TOEFL students
anyone who wants natural English
learners who want to understand real speaking
learners who want to improve listening + vocabulary together

Not ideal for:

complete beginners
learners who want a structured course
people who prefer game-style learning

What You Can Learn with YouGlish

Vocabulary:

common phrases
collocations
idioms
phrasal verbs
academic vocabulary
slang and informal English
business English

Skills developed:

listening comprehension
pronunciation
intonation
real-life vocabulary usage
natural rhythm
pattern recognition

YouGlish teaches vocabulary that helps you sound natural.

Pros & Cons

✔ Pros

real English from real people
thousands of examples per word
excellent for context
improves listening + vocabulary at the same time
free to use
perfect for intermediate → advanced learners

✘ Cons

not a beginner-friendly app
no structured curriculum
can feel overwhelming
requires self-direction
depends on internet connection

The Ideal YouGlish Routine (YourEnglishGuide Method)

🔹 5-Minute Routine

Search 1 vocabulary word
Watch 3–5 real-life examples
Say each sentence out loud

🔹 10-Minute Routine

Search 2–3 words
Watch 5–10 examples
Shadow 2 sentences
Add 1 sentence to your Anki deck

🔹 20-Minute Routine

Search topic-based vocabulary (e.g., “success,” “challenge,” “opportunity”)
Watch 10–15 examples
Study pronunciation patterns
Add your favorite sentences to Anki
Practice speaking them aloud

This routine builds natural, flexible, real-world vocabulary quickly.

Expert Recommendation (The Clear Verdict)

YouGlish is the best vocabulary app for real-life English because it teaches what textbooks and traditional apps can’t:

authentic usage
real pronunciation
natural speech patterns
context-rich vocabulary
everyday English

If you’re intermediate or advanced and want to sound natural, YouGlish should be part of your daily routine.

Comparison Table — Best Vocabulary Apps by Category (2025)

Choosing the right vocabulary app depends on your level, learning style, and goals.
Here’s a clear, simple comparison of the top English vocabulary apps, what they’re best for, and who should use them.

Best English Vocabulary Apps — Side-by-Side Comparison

App	Best For	Level	Learning Method	Strengths	Weaknesses
LingQ	Real-life vocabulary, context learning	Intermediate–Advanced	Real content (stories, YouTube, podcasts)	Natural English, context-based learning, strong SRS	Not ideal for beginners; interface can feel complex
Memrise	Free vocabulary + natural phrases	Beginner–Intermediate	Video clips + SRS	Free, fun, real native speakers	Limited advanced content
Duolingo	Beginner vocabulary	Beginner	Gamified drills	Fun, easy, great for beginners	Limited real-life language; not enough for fluency
Anki	Vocabulary in sentences + long-term memory	Intermediate–Advanced	Custom flashcards + SRS	Strongest memory tool; customizable	Not beginner-friendly; requires consistency
ELSA Speak	Speaking vocabulary + pronunciation	All levels	AI speech analysis	Improves pronunciation + active vocabulary use	Not a full vocabulary app by itself
YouGlish	Real-life usage of vocabulary in videos	Intermediate–Advanced	Real examples from YouTube	Best for natural usage + listening	No structured lessons
Quizlet	Phrasal verbs + academic vocabulary	Beginner–Advanced	Flashcards + community decks	Great for quick memorization; easy to use	Not context-heavy; depends on deck quality

Best App by Category (Quick Pick List)

Best overall vocabulary app:

LingQ

Best free vocabulary app:

Memrise

Best beginner vocabulary app:

Duolingo

Best app for vocabulary in sentences:

Anki

Best app for speaking vocabulary:

ELSA Speak

Best real-life usage vocabulary app:

YouGlish

Best app for phrasal verbs:

Quizlet

Recommended App Combo (Fastest Results)

If you want maximum vocabulary improvement in the shortest time, use:H4: ✔ LingQ + Anki + ELSA

(for intermediate & advanced learners)

✔ Memrise + Duolingo + ELSA

(for beginners)

✔ YouGlish + Anki

(for natural English and speaking fluency)

These combinations cover:

reading
listening
pronunciation
memory
context
speaking

Everything you need for fast vocabulary growth.

How to Choose the Right Vocabulary App (Based on Your Level & Goals)

With so many English vocabulary apps available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
But the truth is simple:

👉 The best app depends on your level and what you want to improve.

This guide breaks down the exact app you should choose — based on YOUR English goals.

Step 1 — Choose an App Based on Your Level

If You’re a Complete Beginner (A1–A2)

You need simple structure, basic vocabulary, and LOTS of repetition.

Best app(s):

Duolingo (easy, fun, basic vocabulary)
Memrise (natural beginner phrases)

Avoid: LingQ, YouGlish (too advanced)

If You’re Intermediate (B1–B2)

This is when real progress happens.

You need:

context
sentences
natural vocabulary
stronger speaking practice

Best app(s):

Memrise
LingQ
Anki
YouGlish

If You’re Advanced (C1–C2)

You need:

real content
real pronunciation
topic-based vocabulary
natural input

Best app(s):

LingQ
YouGlish
Anki

Optional add-on: ELSA for speaking clarity.

Step 2 — Choose an App Based on Your Goal

⭐ GOAL 1 — “I want to learn vocabulary fast.”

Best app: Anki
Why: strongest memory tool.

⭐ GOAL 2 — “I want vocabulary in real sentences.”

Best app: LingQ or Anki

⭐ GOAL 3 — “I want to improve my speaking vocabulary.”

Best app: ELSA Speak

Because speaking is muscle memory — you must SAY words, not just study them.

⭐ GOAL 4 — “I want real-life vocabulary from videos.”

Best app: YouGlish

Perfect for naturally spoken English.

⭐ GOAL 5 — “I want easy, fun beginner vocabulary.”

Best app: Duolingo + Memrise

You need simplicity and motivation at this stage.

⭐ GOAL 6 — “I want the best MIX of vocabulary methods.”

The fastest vocabulary improvement comes from combining:

**H5: ✔ LingQ (context)

✔ Anki (memory)
✔ ELSA (speaking)**

This trio covers:

reading
listening
speaking
pronunciation
long-term memory

It’s the strongest combo for real vocabulary fluency.

Step 3 — Choose an App Based on Your Learning Style

If you like visuals and fun apps → Memrise

If you like reading or stories → LingQ

If you like efficiency and control → Anki

If you like video examples → YouGlish

If you learn by speaking → ELSA

If you like games → Duolingo

Step 4 — The Most Common Mistake (Avoid This)

Many learners choose the wrong app because they ask:

❌ “Which app is the best overall?”

Instead, you must ask:

✔ “Which app matches my level and my goal right now?”

Vocabulary learning changes over time.
You’ll need different apps as you grow.

Step 5 — YourEnglishGuide’s Instant App Selector

If you want a 1-sentence answer, here it is:

If you’re a beginner:

Duolingo + Memrise

If you’re intermediate:

Memrise + LingQ + Anki

If you’re advanced:

LingQ + YouGlish + Anki

If you want better speaking:

ELSA Speak

If you want fast memorization:

Anki

This is the simplest way to choose the right app today.

Daily Vocabulary Routines (5, 10, and 20 Minutes)

Vocabulary learning doesn’t require studying for hours.
It requires consistent, small, daily routines that combine:

input
spaced repetition
speaking
context
active recall

Here are three simple routines you can start today — no matter your level.

1. The 5-Minute Routine (Fast & Effective)

Perfect for busy learners or anyone who wants to build a daily English habit.

Step-by-Step (5 minutes)

1. Learn 2–3 new words or phrases (Memrise or LingQ)

Look for natural phrases like:

“I didn’t expect that.”
“I’m not sure yet.”
“That sounds good.”

2. Say each phrase aloud once (1 minute)

Activates speaking memory.

3. Review 3–5 vocabulary cards (Anki or Memrise)

Reinforces long-term memory through SRS.

4. Watch 1 YouGlish example (optional)

See real-life usage.

This micro routine works because it trains:

memory
speaking
input
repetition

All in just 5 minutes.

2. The 10-Minute Routine (The Sweet Spot)

This is the routine most learners can follow daily.

Step-by-Step (10 minutes)

1. Learn 3–5 new phrases (Memrise or LingQ)

Choose phrases, not single words.

2. Shadow 1 short sentence (ELSA or YouGlish)

Copy the rhythm + pronunciation.

3. Review 10–15 flashcards (Anki)

This builds durable memory.

4. Speak for 30 seconds using today’s new vocabulary

Example:
“Today I learned the phrase ‘I didn’t expect that.’ I can use it when…”

This builds active vocabulary — the kind you actually use.

3. The 20-Minute Routine (Fastest Vocabulary Growth)

This is the full YourEnglishGuide system.
It combines all four pillars of vocabulary learning:

Input
Context
Memory
Speaking

Step-by-Step (20 minutes)

1. Input (LingQ or YouGlish) — 5 minutes

Read or listen to real content.
Create 3–5 new vocabulary highlights.

2. SRS Review (Anki or Memrise) — 5 minutes

Review your due cards.
Add 1–2 new sentences from LingQ/YouGlish.

3. Speaking (ELSA or out loud) — 5 minutes

Say each new word or phrase aloud.
Record your voice.
Shadow 2 example sentences.

4. Active Output — 5 minutes

Speak for 1–2 minutes using today’s vocabulary.
Write 2 simple sentences.

The “Magic Formula” for Vocabulary Growth

No matter how long your routine is, use:

H4: Input → Understanding → Repetition → Speaking

This produces real vocabulary fluency — fast.

Recommended App Combos for Each Routine

For the 5-minute routine:

Memrise
Anki
YouGlish (optional)

For the 10-minute routine:

Memrise or LingQ
Anki
ELSA

For the 20-minute routine:

LingQ (input)
YouGlish (context)
Anki (memory)
ELSA (speaking)

This combination covers every part of vocabulary learning.

The 3 Rules of Daily Vocabulary Practice

Rule 1 — Learn phrases, not words

Phrases build fluency faster than single words.

Rule 2 — Speak every new vocabulary item aloud

Speaking makes memory 3× stronger.

Rule 3 — Review before learning new words

Review = retention
New words = growth
Never skip review.

Common Mistakes English Learners Make With Vocabulary (And How to Fix Them)

Almost every English learner struggles with vocabulary for the same reasons.
If you fix these mistakes, your vocabulary will grow faster than ever — no matter which app you choose.

Here are the biggest mistakes to avoid.

Mistake #1 — Memorizing Single Words Instead of Phrases

Why it’s a problem:

Your brain doesn’t store “isolated words.”
It stores phrases, patterns, and meanings.

Learning:

“run”
“make”
“take”

does nothing for fluency.

But learning:

“run a business”
“make a decision”
“take responsibility”

creates real vocabulary you can actually use.

H4: Fix:

Always learn vocabulary as phrases or sentences using:

LingQ
Anki
Memrise
YouGlish

Mistake #2 — Learning Too Many New Words at Once

Why it’s a problem:

You forget 80–90% of what you try to learn.

This creates:

frustration
burnout
“I’m bad at English” thinking

Fix:

Learn 3–5 new phrases per day — no more.

Slow = fast.

Mistake #3 — Studying Without Reviewing (No SRS)

Why it’s a problem:

If you don’t review words using spaced repetition, you WILL forget them — guaranteed.

Fix:

Use SRS-based apps:

Memrise
Anki
LingQ

Review BEFORE learning anything new.

Mistake #4 — Never Speaking the New Vocabulary

Why it’s a problem:

If you don’t speak vocabulary out loud:

you forget it
you freeze in conversations
you can’t recall it when needed

Fix:

Speak every new word or phrase at least once.

Use:

ELSA (best for pronunciation)
YouGlish (shadowing sentences)

Mistake #5 — Relying Only on One App

Why it’s a problem:

No single app does everything.

Duolingo = basic
Memrise = phrases
LingQ = context
Anki = memory
ELSA = speaking
YouGlish = real usage

Using only one creates vocabulary “gaps.”

Fix:

Use at least two apps:

one for input or phrases
one for memory or speaking

Mistake #6 — Learning Vocabulary That You’ll Never Use

Why it’s a problem:

Textbooks teach:
“cornstarch,” “pineapple,” “caterpillar,” “castle.”

Real English requires:
“by the way,” “actually,” “sounds good,” “I didn’t expect that.”

Fix:

Learn high-frequency, real-life vocabulary.

Apps that help:

LingQ
Memrise
YouGlish

Mistake #7 — Not Learning Vocabulary in Context

Why it’s a problem:

Without context, vocabulary becomes:

confusing
forgettable
unnatural

Fix:

Use apps that provide sentences, videos, or stories:

LingQ
YouGlish
Anki sentence cards

Mistake #8 — Ignoring Pronunciation

Why it’s a problem:

If you can’t pronounce a word correctly, your brain will:

avoid using it
forget it
fear it

This is why many learners “know” words but never use them when speaking.

Fix:

Use:

ELSA Speak (best pronunciation tool)
shadowing sentences from YouGlish

Mistake #9 — Stopping Too Early (The Plateau Problem)

Why it’s a problem:

Most learners stop learning vocabulary after reaching intermediate level (B1).
This causes:

stagnant fluency
slow speaking
difficulty understanding natives
limited expression

Fix:

Switch to:

LingQ (for real content)
YouGlish (for real examples)
Anki (for deep memory)

These tools push you past B1 → B2 → C1.

Mistake #10 — Learning Vocabulary You Never See Again

Why it’s a problem:

Your brain forgets unused and unseen vocabulary.

Fix:

Choose apps that repeatedly show vocabulary in new contexts:

LingQ
YouGlish

This turns vocabulary into real fluency.

FAQs — English Vocabulary Apps (2025)

These are the most common questions English learners ask when choosing or using a vocabulary app.
All answers are simple, practical, and based on real learning science.

1. Which app is best for learning English vocabulary fast?

Short Answer:

Anki is the fastest tool for memorizing English vocabulary because it uses spaced repetition (SRS), which forces long-term memory.

Best Fast-Learning Combo:

Anki (memory)
LingQ (context)
ELSA (speaking the words)

This combination gives the fastest vocabulary growth.

2. Which app is best for beginners to learn vocabulary?

Best for Beginners:

Duolingo → basic vocabulary
Memrise → easy phrases + real videos

These apps build confidence and foundational vocabulary quickly.

3. Which app is best for intermediate or advanced learners?

Best for Intermediate → Advanced:

LingQ (context + real English)
YouGlish (real usage examples)
Anki (long-term memory)

These apps teach natural, real-life vocabulary you’ll actually use.

4. Which app teaches vocabulary in sentences, not single words?

Best Sentence-Based Vocabulary Apps:

LingQ
Anki
YouGlish

These apps show vocabulary the same way native speakers learn it.

5. What is the best free vocabulary learning app?

Best Free Option:

Memrise — free, fun, and filled with native-speaker video clips.

Runner-ups:

YouGlish (free)
Anki (free on desktop/Android)

6. Which app is best for learning English speaking vocabulary?

Best for Speaking Vocabulary:

ELSA Speak

It helps you say vocabulary clearly, with correct pronunciation, stress, and rhythm.

7. Can I become fluent using only vocabulary apps?

Short Answer: No.

Vocabulary apps help you learn words.
But you also need:

input (LingQ, YouTube)
speaking (ELSA, shadowing)
real-life listening (YouGlish)
active usage

Vocabulary apps are tools — not a complete fluency system.

8. How many vocabulary words do I need to be fluent in English?

General Guide:

1,000 words → A2 (basic conversations)
2,000–3,000 words → B1 (conversational fluency)
4,000–5,000 words → B2 (comfortable fluency)
8,000–10,000+ words → C1/C2 (advanced fluency)

Vocabulary quality matters more than quantity — you need useful words, not random words.

9. Why do I forget vocabulary so quickly?

Reasons:

no repetition
no speaking
no context
too many words at once
not enough input
memorizing single words instead of phrases

Fix:

Use spaced repetition (Anki/Memrise) + context (LingQ/YouGlish) + speaking (ELSA).

10. What’s the best time of day to study vocabulary?

Best times:

morning (highest focus)
before bed (memory consolidation)
right after listening to English

Consistency matters more than timing.

H3: 11. How many new vocabulary words should I learn per day?

Recommended Amount:

3–5 new phrases per day
Not more.

This ensures long-term retention.

12. What’s better—learning vocabulary in context or memorizing word lists?

Context is 10× better.

Your brain needs:

meaning
examples
emotion
stories
real usage

Apps like LingQ and YouGlish outperform apps that use simple flashcards.

13. Can vocabulary apps help with pronunciation?

Yes — if you choose the right app.

ELSA Speak is the best vocabulary + pronunciation app.

Most vocabulary apps do not improve pronunciation.

14. How do I choose the right vocabulary app for me?

Simple rule:

Beginner? Duolingo + Memrise
Intermediate? LingQ + Memrise
Advanced? LingQ + YouGlish
Want speaking? ELSA
Want memory? Anki

This solves the choice instantly.

Final Verdict — The Best Way to Learn English Vocabulary Fast

Learning English vocabulary doesn’t have to be hard, frustrating, or confusing.
You don’t need special talent, a perfect memory, or hours of study every day.

You just need:

the right method
the right tools
the right daily routine

And now you have all three.

The best apps don’t just teach you words.
They help you understand vocabulary through context, pronunciation, real examples, and spaced repetition — the way language is actually learned.

Whether you’re a beginner starting with simple phrases, or an advanced learner building natural fluency, there is a perfect app for you.