If you’ve been trying to expand your vocabulary in a new language and feel stuck using traditional methods, you’re not alone. There are so many apps out there, but very few actually focus on what matters most – learning the right words, quickly and effectively. That’s where Lingvist stands out.
In this review, I’ll walk you through how Lingvist works, who it’s best for and why it might just be the most efficient app you’ve never tried. Plus, I can offer you an exclusive 30% discount on the annual plan, along with a 14-day free trial, so you can try it risk-free.
What Is Lingvist?
Lingvist is a language learning app that focuses on teaching vocabulary through intelligent algorithms and spaced repetition. Unlike more gamified apps, Lingvist is designed to maximise efficiency, giving you the most useful words based on real-world frequency and adapting as you progress.
Originally developed by Mait Müntel, an Estonian CERN physicist learning French, Ott Jalakas and Andres Koern, the app has grown into one of the smartest tools for learners who want results without wasting time.
Languages Available (at the time of writing):
- Danish
- Dutch
- English
- Estonian
- French
- German
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Norwegian
- Polish
- Portuguese (Brazilian)
- Russian
- Spanish (European and Latin America)
- Swedish
I’ll update the list as more languages are added.
Key Features of Lingvist
📊 Adaptive Learning
Lingvist tracks your progress and adjusts in real time. It focuses on the words you don’t know yet, not the ones you already do.
🧠 Spaced Repetition
The app uses proven memory science to review words at just the right time to move them into your long-term memory.
📚 Frequency-Based Vocabulary
Instead of random words, Lingvist teaches you the most commonly used words first – so you’re learning what people actually say.
✍️ Real-Life Context
Every word appears in a sentence, helping you understand how it’s used naturally.
🔍 Smart Grammar Hints
While Lingvist is not a grammar-heavy app, it gives you short, relevant tips when needed, especially with verbs and gender.
📈 Progress Tracking
Detailed stats show how many words you’ve learned, your accuracy and your strengths and weaknesses.
📱 Available on Web and Mobile
Use Lingvist on your phone or laptop – and your progress syncs automatically.
How Does Lingvist Work?
Getting started is simple:
- Sign up.
- Choose your languages (target and native).
- Set your daily goal.
- Start learning – Lingvist immediately assesses your level and begins serving up words tailored to your needs.
Each session is made up of fill-in-the-blank sentence exercises. As you answer, Lingvist collects data and adapts. You get instant feedback, and each word is repeated at intervals based on how well you remember it.
As you can see, the interface is very clean, with no fluff or distractions.
Who Is Lingvist Best For?
Lingvist is ideal for:
- Learners at pre-intermediate to advanced levels
- People who want to expand their vocabulary fast
- Busy professionals looking for quick, efficient study sessions
- Anyone preparing for language exams or travelling abroad
It may not be the best fit for complete beginners who need a structured introduction to grammar or speaking practice.
📱 Mobile App-Only Features
Lingvist’s mobile app goes beyond flashcards to offer a more interactive and personalised experience. These features are only available on the app (not on the desktop version):
🧩 Sentence Builder
This feature helps you practise vocabulary in real-world sentence structures. You build sentences by choosing from word tiles, which reinforces grammar and word order in a fun and intuitive way.
🎵 Word Playlists
Create your own vocabulary playlists to review later. Whether you’re preparing for a trip, learning work-related terms or focusing on tricky words, playlists make it easy to tailor your learning.
🔔 Smart Notifications
Lingvist’s mobile app sends smart, personalised study reminders based on your habits – not just generic pings. It’s designed to help you stay consistent without feeling nagged.
📶 Offline Mode
You can download lessons and study without needing an internet connection – ideal for commutes, travel or data-conscious users.
💻 Web/Desktop-Only Features
If you prefer to study on a bigger screen or want more control over custom content, the desktop version has some unique advantages:
🗂️ Advanced Custom Decks
You can create your own vocabulary decks by uploading text files, pasting content or even using image-based text. Lingvist pulls vocabulary from your content and builds a course around it – perfect for niche topics or professional needs.
⌨️ Enhanced Typing Experience
Typing is faster and more accurate on desktop, making it easier to focus on learning rather than device limitations. This is especially useful during intensive study sessions or when accuracy matters.
🔄 Features Available on Both
Whether you’re on mobile or desktop, Lingvist includes powerful core tools:
- Adaptive learning based on your performance
- Smart spaced repetition
- Grammar tips built into lessons
- Progress tracking and personalised stats
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Extremely efficient and fast-paced
- Clean, distraction-free interface
- Teaches the most useful words first
- Adapts to your level in real time
- Includes a great free trial and generous discount
❌ Cons
- Minimal speaking or writing practice
- Limited grammar explanations
- Not designed for absolute beginners
Lingvist vs Other Language Apps
| Feature | Lingvist | Duolingo | Memrise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary Focus | ✅ Strong | ❌ Limited | ✅ Moderate |
| Adaptive Learning | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good | ✅ Good |
| Speaking Practice | ❌ Minimal | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Grammar Explanations | 🟡 Light | ✅ More | 🟡 Light |
| Interface | ✅ Clean | 🎮 Gamified | ✅ Clean |
While apps like Duolingo offer more variety, Lingvist is far more focused on getting results fast. It’s an excellent supplement – or even a main tool – if vocabulary is your priority.
🔄 Using Lingvist and FluentU Together
Although Lingvist and FluentU serve different purposes, they make a powerful combination when used side by side.
📚 Lingvist for Vocabulary Mastery
Lingvist is ideal for building a strong vocabulary base quickly. Its smart, adaptive flashcard system helps you internalise thousands of useful words and phrases in context. You’ll also get grammar tips and sentence practice – especially helpful for memorisation and recall.
🎥 FluentU for Real-World Listening Practice
FluentU, on the other hand, focuses on improving listening and comprehension skills through authentic videos – like movie clips, news reports and interviews. Each video includes interactive subtitles and definitions, making it great for hearing how your new vocabulary is used in natural speech.
🤝 How They Work Together
Here’s how combining them helps you make faster progress:
- Learn with Lingvist, then see and hear those words in action with FluentU.
- Use FluentU to build listening confidence, then review the vocabulary on Lingvist for long-term retention.
- Alternate between structured study (Lingvist) and immersive learning (FluentU) to keep your routine fresh and motivating.
🧠 Best of Both Worlds
Together, these apps cover the two pillars of effective language learning:
- Input (reading, listening)
- Recall (active vocabulary, grammar usage)
If you’re serious about making fast, well-rounded progress, using Lingvist and FluentU together could be a smart investment.
Pricing – With Discount
Lingvist offers a 14-day free trial, giving you full access to all premium features. Please note that you’ll need to enter your credit card details to begin the trial. You won’t be charged during the trial period, but your payment method will be billed unless you cancel at least 24 hours before it ends.
If you decide to upgrade, you can use my affiliate link to get a 30% discount on the annual plan – a great deal for serious learners who want to build vocabulary fast.
🤑 This makes Lingvist one of the most affordable advanced-level tools available – especially considering how quickly it helps you progress.
My Experience with Lingvist
Personally, I found Lingvist incredibly effective. As a test, I used it for refreshing my vocabulary in Dutch. I liked that I didn’t have to waste time with basics I already knew, and that the app kept challenging me as I improved. The sentence-based learning really helped me remember the words, and I found myself recognising them in real conversations and reading materials much faster than expected.
It’s now part of my regular study routine – just ten to fifteen minutes a day adds up fast.
Is Lingvist Worth It?
If your goal is to expand your vocabulary, study efficiently and see measurable progress, then Lingvist is absolutely worth trying. It’s not flashy, but it delivers results – and fast.
With a 14-day free trial and a 30% discount on the annual plan through this link, there’s no reason not to give it a go.
👉 Start your free trial with Lingvist and get 30% off the annual plan here.
FAQ
Q: Is Lingvist really free? A: You can try Lingvist free for 14 days. After that, you’ll need a premium subscription, but my link gives you 30% off the annual plan.
Q: Does Lingvist teach grammar? A: It offers light grammar support in context but isn’t a full grammar course.
Q: Can I use Lingvist offline? A: Yes, the mobile app supports offline learning for premium users.
Q: Is Lingvist better than Duolingo? A: For vocabulary building, Lingvist is much faster and more focused. Duolingo is better for general beginners or people who want more variety.
