How to learn Spanish vocabulary that actually sticks

You cram a list of words, and by the next day most of them are gone. Everyone has been there. The problem is rarely effort, it is the method. Reading a list and recognizing the words gives you the feeling that you know them, without anchoring them in memory.

With the right technique you learn the same number of words in less time and keep them longer. Here are the key principles, and how Recallo applies them for you automatically.

Four principles that make the difference

  • Recall actively: cover the translation and produce the word yourself instead of just reading it.
  • Spaced repetition: review at growing intervals. The effect is strongest just before you would forget.
  • Learn in context: an example sentence anchors a word better than a bare translation.
  • Learn the pronunciation too: if you only ever read a word, you won't say it with confidence later. Audio helps.

How Recallo does this for you

You don't have to plan the schedule. Every day Recallo puts together a batch for you: a few new words, plus exactly the reviews that are due today. If you answer a card confidently, the gap before its next review grows. If you struggle, it comes back sooner.

Every word comes with an example sentence, audio and, where useful, a short learning tip. For verbs, you don't just practice the infinitive, you practice the conjugation along with it.

The first 150 words

Where the learning path begins, sorted by frequency. Each word links to its own page with translation, example sentence and pronunciation.

The complete vocabulary is in the A to Z word index.

Frequently asked questions

How many Spanish words should I learn per day?+

Fewer, but regularly. 5 to 15 new words a day plus reviews will get you further than 100 words in one sitting. In the Free plan, Recallo deliberately keeps the pace at a healthy five new words a day.

How long does it take for new words to stick?+

With spaced repetition, a word moves into long-term memory over several successful reviews. Consistency matters more than time spent: short daily practice beats rare, long cram sessions.

Start learning your first words today

Start for free and recall your first words actively right away.

Start for free →

Related