Context is Everything
Meeting "sustainable" in "The company launched a sustainable initiative" teaches you the word's real usage, collocations, and register – not just a dictionary definition.
Method
Learn English Words – Contextual Vocabulary Building Through Reading
The most effective way to learn English words isn't flashcards – it's reading. Words learned in context are retained 40-60% better. Add FSRS spaced repetition, and you get a system that builds 150-300 permanent words per month at just 15-20 minutes daily.
Active Recall
FSRS asks you to remember before showing the answer. This active effort creates stronger memory traces than passive re-reading. It's harder, but significantly more effective.
Pronunciation First
Hearing each word from day one prevents fossilized mistakes. Readavo plays native TTS for every saved word. The sound-meaning link strengthens memory.
Optimal Spacing
Reviews at 1–3–7–14–30–60 day intervals. Each successful recall doubles the retention period. After 5-7 reviews, the word is effectively permanent.
The Read-Save-Review Cycle
Read: Open today's adapted article. It matches your level: 90% known words, 10% new. Read naturally, understanding from context.
Save: Tap unfamiliar words – see translation, transcription, example. Save with one tap. The word is stored with its original sentence context.
Review: Tomorrow and beyond, FSRS presents saved words at optimal intervals. Try to recall before revealing. The cycle repeats with increasing intervals.
Vocabulary Milestones
500 words (A1–A2): Understand 70% of simple texts. Can read adapted stories. Order food, ask directions. Achievable in 3 months.
1500 words (A2–B1): Understand 80% of everyday texts. Can follow adapted news. Participate in basic conversations. 6-8 months.
3000 words (B1–B2): Understand 90% of general texts. Read original BBC articles. Express opinions on most topics. 12-15 months.
5000 words (B2+): Near-native reading comprehension. Subtle nuances, wordplay, professional texts. 18-24 months.
Common Mistakes
Too many words per day: 20+ new words overwhelm working memory. Stay at 5-15. Quality over quantity.
Skipping reviews: New words without review = wasted effort. The review session (5 min) is more important than reading new text.
Only one topic: Reading only tech news builds tech vocabulary but misses everyday words. Diversify.
5 Minutes of Review > 30 Minutes of Cramming
FSRS-timed review at the optimal moment requires minimal effort but creates maximum retention. It feels easy because the timing is perfect. Cramming feels hard because the brain isn't ready.
Fresh articles
Articles that strengthen vocabulary growth
If you want words to stay longer instead of just passing through your queue, start with these articles on memory, intervals, and daily practice.
How to remember English words long term
Seven rules that help vocabulary stay active without overload or random review.
Why spaced repetition works
A closer look at why review timing is the strongest lever for long-term retention.
A real 15-minute English routine
A compact rhythm that brings words back on time and keeps learning sustainable.
FAQ
Word Learning Questions
Reading in context + FSRS review. 40-60% better retention than flashcards. 150-300 words/month.
5-15 optimal. More than 20 overwhelms memory. Quality over quantity.
No. Lists lack context and collocations. Reading teaches the full picture of how words are used.
5-7 FSRS reviews over 2-3 months = 90%+ retention. Effectively permanent.
Start Learning Words That Stick
Context + FSRS = permanent vocabulary growth.