Chrome extensions can turn your browser into an English learning tool. Here are the top 5 in 2025.

1. FreeTalk Dictionary ⭐ Editor's Choice

What it does: Shows simple English definitions instantly while you browse any website.

Best for: Learning vocabulary in context without interrupting your reading.

Key features:

• Click any word for instant definition
• Definitions in simple English (B1-B2 level)
• No account needed
• Works on all websites
• Completely free

Why it's #1: Other tools require switching tabs or apps. FreeTalk keeps you in your content.

Price: Free
Get it: FreeTalk Dictionary

2. Grammarly

What it does: Checks your writing for grammar, spelling, and style errors.

Best for: Improving your English writing in emails, documents, and social media.

Key features:

• Real-time grammar checking
• Style suggestions
• Tone detector
• Works in text fields everywhere

Drawback: Free version is limited. Premium costs $12/month.

Price: Free basic, $12/month premium

3. LanguageTool

What it does: Grammar and spell checker for multiple languages.

Best for: Writers who need grammar help in English and other languages.

Key features:

• Grammar and spelling check
• Style improvements
• Works in 20+ languages
• Free version available

Drawback: Not as good as Grammarly for English. Less accurate suggestions.

Price: Free or €4.99/month premium

4. Toucan

What it does: Translates words on websites into your target language as you browse.

Best for: Beginners who want to learn vocabulary while browsing in their native language.

Key features:

• Auto-translates some words on pages
• Flashcard review system
• Gamification
• Multiple languages

Drawback: Keeps you translating instead of thinking in English. Can be distracting.

Price: Free

5. Language Reactor (formerly Language Learning with Netflix)

What it does: Adds dual subtitles and vocabulary tools to Netflix and YouTube.

Best for: Learning English through movies and videos.

Key features:

• Dual subtitles (English + your language)
• Click words for definitions
• Save vocabulary
• Playback controls for learners

Drawback: Only works on Netflix/YouTube. Need subscriptions to those services.

Price: Free

Quick Comparison

| Extension | Best For | Free? | Learning Method | |-----------|----------|-------|----------------| | FreeTalk Dictionary | Reading & vocabulary | ✅ Yes | Context learning | | Grammarly | Writing | Partial | Error correction | | LanguageTool | Multilingual writing | Partial | Error correction | | Toucan | Passive learning | ✅ Yes | Translation | | Language Reactor | Video learning | ✅ Yes | Subtitles |

Which Should You Choose?

For Daily Learning: FreeTalk Dictionary

If you read English content online, FreeTalk Dictionary gives you the most consistent learning.

For Writing: Grammarly

If you write emails, essays, or social media posts in English, Grammarly catches mistakes.

For Video Learning: Language Reactor

If you learn best through movies and shows, Language Reactor makes Netflix and YouTube into study tools.

FAQs

Q: Do these extensions slow down my browser?
A: Modern extensions are lightweight. FreeTalk Dictionary has minimal impact on browsing speed.

Q: Can I use these on mobile?
A: Chrome extensions work on desktop Chrome. Some have separate mobile apps.

Q: Are free versions good enough?
A: For most learners, yes. FreeTalk Dictionary is completely free with no premium tier.