Getting Started
What is Snackword?
Snackword is a free vocabulary learning app with a unique approach to language learning through Pet Logic—memorable, humorous explanations written from a pet's perspective. Instead of boring drills and endless memorization, you learn foreign language words by understanding how a slightly sarcastic dog or judgmental cat would view the world.
How does Pet Logic work?
Pet Logic is the core of Snackword's teaching philosophy. Each word comes with a funny narrative from a pet's point of view. For example, instead of just learning "house," you learn:
"A human's fortress where a dog's life revolves around naps, the couch, and defending against the mailman. Basically, heaven."
This approach makes words stick because humor, context, and emotion create stronger memory traces than rote memorization.
Do I need an account?
No account required! Snackword is a free language learning app and accessible without sign-up. Your learning streak is saved locally on your device using browser storage, so you don't need to worry about password management or data breaches.
How much does this free vocabulary learning app cost?
Snackword is completely free. There are no premium tiers, no hidden fees, and no ads. The project is built with affordability and accessibility in mind.
Languages & Content
Which languages are available?
Snackword currently supports 11 languages:
- 🇪🇸 Spanish
- 🇩🇪 German
- 🇫🇷 French
- 🇯🇵 Japanese
- 🇨🇳 Mandarin
- 🇮🇹 Italian
- 🇵🇹 Portuguese
- 🇸🇪 Swedish
- 🇳🇱 Dutch
- 🇬🇧 English (ESL)
- 🇰🇷 Korean
- 🇹🇭 Thai
More languages are coming soon!
What are the learning themes?
Words are organized into thematic batches to make learning contextual and fun:
- 🏠 The Den - Home, furniture, and indoor life
- 🍳 The Kitchen - Food, cooking, and eating
- 👨👩👧👦 The Pack - Family, friends, and relationships
- 😍 Emotions - Feelings and states of mind
- 🏃 Zoomies - Actions, movement, and energy
- 🌳 Nature - Outdoor life and environment
- 💼 The Human Office - Work and technology
- ✨ Untranslatables - Unique cultural concepts
All 10 themes are available for every language. This thematic approach makes learning more meaningful—you learn about a topic, not isolated words.
Learning & Features
Is Snackword for beginners?
Yes! Snackword works for all levels. Beginners benefit from the thematic organization and memorable vocabulary learning through explanations. Intermediate learners appreciate the idioms and cultural context. Advanced learners enjoy the "Untranslatables" theme, which explores words that don't translate directly—a sign of linguistic mastery.
How does the streak system work?
The streak system encourages consistent daily learning. When you visit Snackword, your daily streak increments automatically. Streaks are saved locally on your device, so they persist even if you close your browser. If you miss a day, your streak resets—but you can build it back up immediately.
Can I hear the pronunciation?
Yes! Most words include high-quality audio pronunciation. Simply tap the 🔊 button to hear how the word is pronounced. Note: Audio may not be available for all languages due to technical limitations.
How is this different from other language apps?
Most language learning apps rely on repetition and drills. Snackword's unique approach to vocabulary learning is different because:
- Humor as a learning tool - Pet Logic makes words unforgettable
- Zero pressure - No streaks, scores, or "you're behind" notifications
- Cultural context - You learn idioms and untranslatable words
- No account required - Pure focus on learning
- Truly free - No premium tiers or ads
- Audio included - Pronunciation is built-in, not a premium feature
Can I use Snackword on mobile?
Yes! Snackword works on all devices—phones, tablets, and desktops. The interface is responsive and optimized for touch. Consider bookmarking it to your home screen for quick access.
Content & Accuracy
How accurate are the translations?
While Snackword strives for accuracy, the primary goal is memorable learning, not literal translation. Pet Logic explanations are intentionally creative and sometimes humorous—they're meant to help you remember the word, not serve as a dictionary.
For formal definitions and grammar, we recommend complementing Snackword with traditional resources like Google Translate, Wiktionary, or language-specific dictionaries.
Why does the disclaimer mention AI content?
Transparency is important. While AI helps generate content, we want you to know that Snackword should complement, not replace, professional linguistic instruction.
Technical & Privacy
Is my data private?
Yes. Your streak data is stored locally on your device, not on any server. We don't track personal information or use invasive analytics. The only data we collect is anonymized, privacy-respecting usage statistics through Plausible Analytics.
What if I clear my browser data?
Since streaks are stored locally, clearing your browser cache or cookies will reset your streak. To preserve your progress, avoid clearing site data for snackword.ovh.
Is there an app?
Snackword is a web app (not a native iOS or Android app), but you can add it to your home screen on mobile for a native app-like experience:
- iOS: Open in Safari → Share → Add to Home Screen
- Android: Open in Chrome → Menu → Install App