Must-Have English Learning Apps for Language Learners
Table of Contents
Introduction
You’ve landed on our blog where we’re going to dig into the thrilling realm of learning English through apps. We’ll see how these cool digital resources can help you get better at vocabulary, reading, writing, and listening, and how they can make learning a language enjoyable and successful.
Doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or trying to advance your English skills, there’s something in these English Learning apps for all. So, let’s jump in and figure out how technology can play a big role in studying languages!
Review of English Learning Apps
Among these apps, Memrise shines as the “anti-flashcard flashcard app,” offering a fun approach to vocabulary building and memorable phrases. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Memrise, exploring its unique features, user reviews, and suitability for different learning styles and levels. Additionally, we’ll check out other essential language learning tools, such as the Hemingway Editor, Reading Trainer, FluentU, and TED, each designed to enhance specific language skills.
Memrise - The Anti-Flashcard Flashcard App
Memrise adds a touch of fun to language learning with its focus on vocabulary and memorable phrases. It is arguably the best apps to improve vocabulary out there
Target Skills:
- Vocabulary: Memrise is all about building your word bank. You’ll learn loads of new words and phrases.
- Everyday Phrases: Helps you pick up those handy expressions for real-life situations.
Learning Style:
- Mems to the rescue! The heart of Memrise is in its “mems” – funny images, videos, or mnemonics designed to help words stick in your memory. It’s less about serious study and more about making learning a bit goofy.
- Gamification: Earning points and leveling up adds a playful element.
- Spaced Repetition: Makes sure you keep reviewing words for long-term learning.
- Official and user-created courses: Offers a mix of structured learning alongside courses made by other members of the community, with varying levels of quality.
Level: Best for beginners and intermediate learners wanting to expand their vocabulary.
User Reviews: People enjoy the fun approach and find the “mems” helpful. Some find the focus a bit narrow.
Features:
- *Video clips of native speakers: See how words are used in context.
- Pronunciation practice: Record yourself and get feedback.
- Offline mode: Keep learning even without an internet connection.
Cost: Free with ads and limited features, paid version has more options.
Pros:
- Makes learning new words engaging and, dare we say, even enjoyable!
- Great for building vocabulary quickly.
- Variety of courses keeps things interesting.
Cons:
- Less focused on overall grammar or in-depth conversational skills.
- Quality of user-created courses can be hit or miss.
Best Suited For:
- Anyone who finds traditional vocabulary learning a bit dry.
- Learners wanting a quick and fun way to expand their vocabulary.
- Those who enjoy a gamified learning experience.
Hemingway Editor - Write Like You Talk...But Better
Hemingway Editor – your virtual writing coach, transforming your prose from wordy to whip-smart. If you need to find an app to improve English writing skills, this is the one to download.
Target Skills:
- Conciseness: Helps you say more with fewer words, making your writing stronger.
- Clarity: Finds confusing sentences so you can make them easier to understand.
- Readability: Gives you a score to show how difficult your writing is to read. You can make it simpler if you need to!
Learning Style:
- Guided self-editing: Color-coded highlights show you areas where your writing could be better. This way, you make the changes yourself!
- Intuitive Analysis: Instead of tricky grammar rules, it helps you develop a natural feel for good writing.
Level: This app is best for intermediate or advanced English learners. It assumes you already have a good grasp of basic grammar.
User Reviews: People generally like Hemingway Editor! They find it helpful for making their writing clearer and more concise.
Pros:
- Affordable: The basic online version is completely free!
- User-friendly: It’s easy to use with clear instructions.
- Strengthens writing skills: Helps you build good writing habits, not just get quick fixes.
Cons:
- Limited grammar support: Won’t find spelling mistakes or always tell you the perfect word to use.
- Style-focused: Best for clear and direct writing. If you want to write fancy sentences, this might not be the best tool.
Best Suited For:
- English learners who want to improve their writing and make it clearer.
- People who want direct suggestions on how to make their writing better.
- Anyone looking to make their writing stronger and more impactful.
Reading Trainer – No More "Too Long, Didn't Read"s
Think your reading speed’s stuck in slow motion? Reading Trainer could be your ticket to the literary fast lane! This, among other apps for English reading, is all about boosting how quickly you zip through books and articles.
Target Skills:
- Reading Speed: Helps you get through texts quickly without missing important details.
- Focus: Trains your brain to lock onto the essential words on the page.
Learning Style
- Focused Exercises: Uses drills that target specific reading skills.
- Progress Tracking: Shows you how your speed and comprehension are improving.
- Adjustable Difficulty: Lets you tailor the challenge to your level.
Level: Best for intermediate and advanced readers who are already comfortable with the basics of English.
User Reviews: Generally positive, with users enjoying the speed improvements but hoping for broader skill development.
Features
- Variety of exercises to improve different aspects of reading.
- Tracks reading speed and comprehension over time.
- Option to customize practice texts.
Cost: Affordable one-time purchase.
Pros:
- Tracks progress so you see improvement
- Adjustable difficulty levels for a customized workout
- Simple to use
Cons:
- Less emphasis on deep understanding of the text
- Might not be the best for complete beginners
Best Suited For:
- Busy students and professionals who need to read a lot
- People who want to power through their reading list
- Anyone who wants to improve their focus while reading
Fluentu – Watch and Learn
Looking for apps for English listening? FluentU is our top pick! This app thinks outside the textbook, using entertaining videos like music clips, trailers, and news to make language learning more immersive.
- Skill Focus: Listening and reading comprehension are its strong suit. It also helps build vocabulary in context.
Name & Brief Description: FluentU – Transforms authentic videos into personalized language lessons.
Target Skills:
- Listening Comprehension: Improves understanding of spoken language in natural contexts.
- Vocabulary Building: Teaches new words the way they’re used in real life.
Learning Style: Videos are the star! Interactive captions, quizzes, and flashcards make learning from them fun.
Level: Offers a range but works best for intermediate learners who can already understand basic sentences.
User Reviews: People love the engaging videos, but some find it pricey and wish the focus was broader.
Features: Interactive captions you can click for definitions, flashcards, personalized quizzes, and progress tracking.
Cost: Subscription with monthly or annual fees. A limited version is free to try.
Pros:
- Makes learning fun and engaging with real-world videos.
- Interactive tools help you actively learn from the materials.
- Good variety of video content keeps things interesting.
Cons:
- Can be expensive compared to other options.
- Limited focus on grammar, speaking, and writing.
Best Suited For:
- Learners who enjoy videos and want a more immersive experience.
- Those focused on understanding spoken and written language.
- Visual learners who thrive with multimedia content.
TED
Are you a curious learner who wants to broaden your English skills and your understanding of the world?
TED is your doorway to discovery! Listen to passionate speakers discuss cutting-edge research, creative projects, and global issues. You’ll expand your vocabulary, improve your listening, and walk away feeling inspired with this app for English practice
Target Skills:
- Listening Comprehension: Challenges you to follow native speakers with diverse accents and complex ideas.
- Vocabulary Building: Exposes you to rich language in diverse topics, from science to art.
- Expanding Knowledge: Broadens your understanding of the world, boosting your conversational range in English.
Learning Style:
- Authentic Language: TED Talks showcase real-world English used by experts and passionate speakers.
- Subtitles & Transcripts: Help you follow along, even with difficult talks.
- Wide Range of Topics: Find subjects that spark your interest, making learning more enjoyable.
Level: Best for intermediate and advanced learners who can follow along the core ideas of a presentation.
User Reviews: English learners rave about the subtitles but sometimes find the pace and vocabulary challenging.
Features:
- Multiple language subtitles and transcripts to support your understanding.
- Download talks to study them offline.
- “Surprise Me” feature for discovering talks outside your usual interests.
Cost: Free! With an optional subscription for ad-free viewing and bonus content.
Pros:
- Improves your listening skills with engaging, real English.
- Deepens your vocabulary and knowledge of the world.
- Sparks curiosity and makes you a more interesting conversationalist.
Cons:
- Some talks are very fast-paced or use specialized jargon.
- Can be overwhelming to find talks suited to your English level.
Best Suited For:
- Intermediate/advanced learners focused on listening and expanding vocabulary.
- Curious minds who want to learn about the world while improving their English.
- Those who enjoy a challenge and are willing to rewind and re-listen.
Conclusion
In closing, the world of language learning has been transformed by apps. From Memrise’s playful vocabulary approach to the Hemingway Editor’s writing focus, these tools have opened up new avenues for learners. Whether you’re building vocabulary, reading faster, or improving listening, there’s an app to support your journey.
As technology advances, so does language education. Embrace these apps, make learning fun, and set off on a rewarding journey to English proficiency.
Don’t forget to read out other blog here about reviewing other English Learning Apps here
