Frequently asked questions
Everything about how 10 Words teaches vocabulary — the method, the languages, and what to expect at launch.
The method
What is 10 Words?
10 Words is an iPhone app for learning a language ten words at a time. Each small batch of new words appears inside real sentences you complete like a crossword, and spaced repetition brings them back so they stick.
Does 10 Words use spaced repetition?
Yes. Every word is scheduled with FSRS, a modern spaced-repetition algorithm that shows each word right before you’d forget it — not too early, not too late.
What is FSRS and why does it matter?
FSRS (Free Spaced Repetition Scheduler) models your personal memory instead of applying one fixed schedule. It needs roughly 20–30% fewer reviews than the older SM-2 algorithm for the same retention.
Why learn words in sentences instead of flashcards?
A flashcard teaches a translation; a sentence teaches usage — meaning, grammar and the words that go together. So you learn to use words, not just recognise them.
Is 10 Words like Anki or Clozemaster?
It shares their best ideas — cloze sentences and spaced repetition — but with modern FSRS scheduling, ready decks ordered by frequency, a crossword you actually play, and a calm ten-words-at-a-time pace. No deck-building.
Languages & fluency
What languages can I learn?
Spanish is available first. French, German, Italian, Portuguese and English vocabulary courses are on the way, all using the same in-context, spaced-repetition method.
How many words do I need to be fluent?
The most common 1,000 words cover about 88% of everyday speech, and 2,000–3,000 gets you comfortable conversation. 10 Words teaches the highest-frequency words first.
Where do the sentences come from?
Many sentences and translations come from Tatoeba, a free, community-built database released under a Creative Commons licence. We filter for quality, and you can flag any card that looks off.
Pricing & availability
Is 10 Words free?
You can start learning for free. 10 Words launches on the App Store for iPhone soon.
Is there an Android version?
10 Words launches on iPhone first. Android is planned for later.
Still curious?
See the whole method — spaced repetition, sentences and quality — in one place.
Read how it works