Top Vocabulary Learning Apps for English Learners

Nowadays, many learners are turning to vocabulary learning apps instead of traditional books and notebooks. These apps make it easier and more effective to remember new words. In this article, IDP IELTS has compiled a list of the most popular and effective English vocabulary apps available today.

Learning vocabulary becomes more convenient and efficient with the help of smart apps, suitable for different levels and learning goals. Below are some of the top-rated vocabulary apps for English learners:

Duolingo

Duolingo is a free app designed to gamify the English learning experience. It features short, interactive lessons that cover vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Pros:

• Beginner-friendly interface

• Game-like learning keeps users engaged

• Free version with many lessons available

Cons:

• Content remains at a basic level

• Lessons may be repetitive

• Limited grammar explanations

• Not ideal for speaking or writing skills

Oxford Dictionary

This is the official app by Oxford University, offering accurate definitions, correct pronunciation, and real-world usage examples.

Pros:

• Over 350,000 words and phrases

• Real-life usage examples

• Quick Tap to Translate feature

• Word of the Day to expand vocabulary

Cons:

• Academic-level vocabulary may be challenging for beginners

Quizlet

Quizlet is a flashcard-based app that helps you memorize words, phrases, and concepts using games, quizzes, and matching exercises.

Pros:

• Access to millions of user-generated vocabulary sets

• Multiple learning modes (Learn, Spell, Test, Match)

• Easy-to-use interface

Cons:

• Some features are behind a paywall

ELSA Speak

This app focuses on pronunciation using AI to analyze your speech and give personalized feedback.

Pros:

• Detailed pronunciation correction

• Real-life speaking topics

• Beginner to advanced friendly

Cons:

• Only focuses on speaking

• Available only on mobile

TFlat

A Vietnamese-developed English-Vietnamese dictionary app that includes listening practice, vocabulary by topic, and English videos.

Pros:

• Works online and offline

• Large vocabulary database

• Bookmark important phrases for review

Cons:

• Some automatic translations may be inaccurate in complex contexts

LingoDeer

LingoDeer is designed for Asian learners and teaches vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure in a structured way.

Pros:

• Comprehensive language instruction

• Illustrated lessons and accurate pronunciation

Cons:

• Full access requires a paid subscription

Drops

Drops offers short 5-minute vocabulary sessions using visuals and touch-based interactions.

Pros:

• Learn in 5-minute sessions daily

• Simple interface and interactive design

• Lessons refresh every 9 hours

Cons:

• Free version limits session time

• Premium version needed for unlimited learning

Brainscape

This app uses spaced repetition flashcards for effective memorization.

Pros:

• Create personal or expert-approved flashcards

• Focused repetition system

• Vocabulary sets by proficiency level

Cons:

• Premium version required for full access

Cram

A flashcard-based app perfect for exam preparation or learning vocabulary by topic.

Pros:

• Four flexible study modes

• Free and syncs well across devices

Cons:

• Outdated interface

• Limited advanced features

Simpler

Simpler teaches vocabulary and grammar through short stories and automatically summarizes new content for review.

Pros:

• Level-based lessons

• Auto-save and categorize new words

• Clear grammar explanations

Cons:

• Limited free lessons

• Full access requires payment

Memrise

Memrise uses videos, games, and quizzes featuring native speakers to make learning more interactive.

Pros:

• Available online and offline

• Real-life videos improve listening skills

• Personalized study paths

Cons:

• Weak on speaking and writing

• Premium access required for advanced courses

WordUp

This dictionary-style app helps you build a personalized vocabulary plan based on word frequency in real-life situations.

Pros:

• Suggests custom learning paths

• Engaging interface with real examples

• Useful as an English-English dictionary

Cons:

• No Vietnamese support

• Not ideal for complete beginners

Magoosh

Magoosh is tailored for exam preparation such as IELTS, TOEFL, and GRE. It provides vocabulary lists, lectures, and test strategies.

Pros:

• Word lists sorted by exam and level

• User-friendly design

• Game-based quizzes enhance motivation

Cons:

• Lacks advanced speaking or writing practice

Cake

Cake offers daily conversation practice with short, useful phrases and pronunciation feedback powered by AI.

Pros:

• No disruptive ads

• Practice pronunciation through real-life scenarios

• Fast, accurate feedback

Cons:

• Distracting entertainment-style content

• Lacks structured learning levels

Mondly

Mondly combines speech recognition and simulated conversations to help you practice speaking and learn vocabulary.

Pros:

• Realistic speaking practice

• Works on web, Android, and iOS

• Personalized lesson plans

Cons:

• Free version limits access

Busuu

Busuu provides vocabulary and grammar lessons with feedback from native speakers in a global learning community.

Pros:

• Tailored courses for different levels and goals

• Writing practice reviewed by native speakers

• Interactive games and quizzes

Cons:

• Premium subscription required for full features

• Some academic vocabulary not fully updated

ABA English

ABA English teaches vocabulary and grammar through short video-based lessons, ideal for learners who enjoy visual learning.

Pros:

• Placement test to customize learning path

• Covers all four skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing)

• Vocabulary review after each video

Cons:

• No Vietnamese language support

• Best for learners who enjoy movie-based learning

Bucha English

This app offers daily communication vocabulary and phrases categorized by practical topics like shopping, travel, and work.

Pros:

• Vietnamese-friendly interface

• Efficient review and reminder system

Cons:

• Limited content range

• Most suitable for middle and high school students

Anki

Anki is a free flashcard app using spaced repetition to improve vocabulary retention. You can customize decks and sync across devices.

Pros:

• Image-based vocabulary search

• Share decks with other learners

Cons:

• Not user-friendly for beginners

• Lacks built-in content

Mochi Mochi

Mochi Mochi uses a spaced repetition method with vocabulary divided into five levels of difficulty.

Pros:

• Fun design keeps learners motivated

• Scientifically proven learning method

Cons:

• Limited word bank

• Some features require paid upgrades

• Incompatible with certain Android devices

Smart learning apps have revolutionized English vocabulary learning. Let’s explore some major advantages:

Learn Anytime, Anywhere

With just a smartphone, you can study vocabulary on the go. Many apps also support offline learning, letting you make use of every spare moment.

Personalized Learning

Modern apps provide personalized learning paths tailored to your level and goals, from beginner to advanced, making your learning process more effective.

Long-Term Retention

Many apps use spaced repetition—a proven memory technique—combined with visuals and audio to enhance long-term word retention.

Contextual Learning

Apps present words in real-life examples and dialogues, helping you understand how to use them in different situations.

Clear Learning Goals

Built-in progress tracking shows how many words you’ve learned, your retention level, and what to review. You can also set daily targets to maintain motivation.

Despite their benefits, apps work best when used correctly. Here are some important tips:

Choose the Right App for Your Level

Beginners should start with basic apps offering common words and clear instructions. Advanced learners should select apps with academic vocabulary or exam prep features.

Stay Consistent and Focused

Set a learning schedule and use reminders to keep up daily practice. Avoid distractions from social media or other entertainment apps.

Be Cautious with Ads and Links

Free apps often include ads. Avoid clicking unfamiliar links or downloading suspicious files. Consider upgrading to premium for a better, ad-free experience.

Build Your English Vocabulary and Ace the IELTS with IDP

A strong vocabulary not only improves your communication skills but also boosts your confidence in the IELTS exam. With support from smart vocabulary apps, expanding your English word bank has never been easier.

Combine these tools with IDP’s high-quality IELTS preparation materials to level up your learning. When you're ready, choose from our flexible IELTS test dates and locations across Vietnam.

Register for your IELTS test with IDP today and move one step closer to your goals!