"If I Keep Going, I Start to Understand the Definition More."

Ninth grader Frankie O. shares his experience using Vocabulary.com, where he's busy learning words like conceited, foolhardy, and lineament.

Vocabulary.com: How were you exposed to Vocabulary.com?

Frankie O.: It started in the beginning of the school year when my English teacher told us he was going to give us the vocabulary on the computer. I thought it was a good idea to learn new words.

VC: Is using Vocabulary.com working for you?

FO: Before, teachers would give us a printed sheet of paper and we'd have to learn just one simple definition for each word. On Vocabulary.com I'm learning the different definitions and the different examples.

And I'm definitely learning more words. Some words I can get them on the first try and keep going. Others are more tricky, but if I keep going I start to understand the definition more. Like, what that word is trying to say.

VC: Is it addictive?

FO: In class, when [our time to use Vocabulary.com] is over I’m like, "No, I’m so into it now!" And at home, when I’m bored, I start thinking I'll play for a couple rounds, then I’m getting all these questions right, and I’m like, “I’m a master at this!” I keep going and going and suddenly it’s nine o’clock.

It’s a good way to waste time, but not in a bad way. You’re learning something.

VC: What are some of your favorites of the words you're working on or have mastered. Do you find yourself using them?

FO: Right now I'm working on conceited, foolhardy, and lineament. I've mastered nonchalant. I didn’t know it was a word until I heard it, and then I found it means “unconcerned.” You can sound a little smarter using that word. I’ve used it a couple of times.

VC: As you play, are you using any of the learning resources to read up on the words you're seeing?

FO: If I guess wrong, and I truly didn’t know the word, I will read [the word's blurb] to see if I can get it right the next time. The [blurbs] are more explanatory than the definition because it gives you examples and more clues, so you know what to check for on the next question on that word.

VC: Do you pay attention to the badges for levels and achievements you see as you play?

FO: The badges and stuff are a pretty good way to keep a record, and pace yourself, keep on going higher without missing a question.

VC: How often do you use it?

FO: In class, he gives it to us for 15 minutes. When I’m home or anything I get on and start using it. Sometimes when I’m not doing my teacher's lists I get on the Challenge and try it to see if I know the words.

To thank Frankie for his time, we're sharing "Real-Life Examples Make Words Stick in Your Brain," on how you can speed your learning by reading usage examples for the words you're learning on Vocabulary.com.