This vocabulary builder app is certainly persistent in its advertising. If you opt for the free version, be warned: loud and frequent ads are the norm. It’s advisable not to open this app if you’re near anyone sleeping, as the interruptions are quite jarring. The app pushes a subscription model at $5 per month. For some, this might be acceptable, but for users on a tight budget, the pricing may be a barrier. They do offer a yearly option at $30, bringing the monthly equivalent down to $2.50. However, even at $2.50 monthly, payable annually, it still might not be the most accessible or desirable option when considering the abundance of free alternatives available to Learn Words.
For those seeking to expand their vocabulary without subscription fees, there are readily available methods. Simply reading books is an excellent way to encounter new vocabulary in context. Furthermore, most smartphones and e-readers, like Kindles, come equipped with built-in dictionaries. These tools allow you to instantly look up unfamiliar words as you read, creating a seamless learning experience. In my experience using this vocabulary app, I’ve only encountered a handful of words that I hadn’t already come across in my regular reading.
However, the app does offer a valuable free feature: daily word alerts. These alerts provide definitions of useful words directly to your device, and this feature alone is quite beneficial. If you require more context, such as sentence examples, these can easily be found with a quick online search.
While the daily alerts are a positive aspect, the aggressive advertising in the free version detracts from the overall user experience. Many free apps incorporate ads, but this app’s approach feels particularly intrusive. A single scroll can trigger a loud, disruptive advertisement, which can be inconsiderate, especially for users who prioritize how they spend their limited funds.
Update: After expressing my initial frustrations, I noticed the app offered a reduced annual subscription of $15, down from $30. Even though labeled as a “last chance” offer, and while I ultimately declined as it wasn’t payday, the option was presented. This price adjustment does make the app more appealing, but the core issue of intrusive ads in the free version remains.
