Apps for learning English

I’m often asked about apps for learning English. Today I’m going to tell you about my favourite ones. You should be able to find them in Google Play or in the Apple App Store.

You should know that most of these apps use 100% English, but some of them (like Duolingo) involve translation and might not be available in your language. 

BBC Learning English
This is my all-time favourite app! If you only get one, get this one! It’s great for listening, vocabulary and grammar. I like the app better than the website and YouTube channel because it's easier to search by topic or level. (This is mostly British English.)

British Council apps
There are several of these. There's one for grammar, one for vocabulary, a podcast app and a video app. There's also one for learning the sounds of English and one to test your level.

Lingoclip (from Lyrics Training)
This is a fun app for people who like music. You can listen to songs and then either type the missing words or choose the correct word from a list. You can also find songs and activities that are the right level for you. There is also a website if you prefer.

Beelinguapp
With this app, you can listen and read at the same time. Some learners know the word when they see it written down but not when they hear it. Others have the opposite problem - they can say the word but don’t know the spelling. Reading and listening together can help you with that. This app is good for listening, reading, spelling and pronunciation.

Duolingo
With Duolingo, you can learn grammar and vocabulary up to about intermediate level. It might be too easy if you are intermediate or above but it's good for reviewing the basics. I actually prefer the website to the app though. (Duolingo uses American English.)

Quizlet
With Quizlet, you can create your own sets of flashcards or use the sets already created by other people. It’s most useful for reviewing vocabulary but you can use it for grammar too.

My Dictionary (by Kataykin)
This is good for saving new vocabulary and reviewing it. I think it's only available on Android devices though.

Word Reference
This is a better dictionary than Google Translate although it doesn’t have as many languages.

WordBrain
This is a game where you have to find words hidden in a grid. It might help you with vocabulary and spelling.

Wordscapes
This is another word game. You are given some letters and you have to make as many words as you can with those letters.

ELSA
This app helps you with pronunciation. You should know that it's American English. I've never tried it but the reviews are good.

Here are some more apps that I’ve never tried so I don’t know how good they are:
Tandem: Language Exchange - find a language exchange partner
WordUp - build your vocabulary
EWA: Learn English Language - learn from books, movies and TV shows (some free content but you have to pay for full access)
Word Hippo - definitions, opposites, example sentences and more
WattPad - read and write stories

​Do you know any more? Let us know in the comments!


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