English Idioms in Use is a reference and study tool for English language learners, providing a database of idioms, phrasal verbs, and slang on iOS.
The App DNA
What makes this app unique?
The app removes the friction of searching for idiomatic meanings by providing a centralized, offline-accessible library for language learners.
For English language learners seeking to improve their knowledge of idioms, phrasal verbs, and American slang.
What does it look like?
Key features
Database containing over 200 common English idioms and 1800 phrasal verbs for reference.
Testing modules for idioms and phrasal verbs with integrated audio feedback for correct answers.
Study tool for proverbs and phrasal verbs using digital flashcards.
How much does it cost?
The app operates on a free model, monetizing through ad-inventory generated by high-frequency study sessions.
Velocity
Dormant developmentperformanceShow more...
English idioms in use has been inactive for 2,618 days, indicating the project is no longer receiving development support. The last update provided minor performance improvements and additional content, but no further activity has been recorded since. The app is effectively in a zombie state with no signs of ongoing maintenance or feature development.
Who built it?
Nguyen Thi Thanh Huyen
5 apps tracked · Education
TOEIC Vocabulary Practice Test
Learning English 2018 - EngVid
English Grammar Quiz and Learn
3000 Vocab -English VocabularyUser Sentiment
What do users think recently?
Recent user voice shows a frustrated sentiment. Users appreciate creative writing assistance provides a helpful spark for users experiencing common creative blocks.
How are ratings & reviews evolving?
What users say, by theme
- Creative writing assistance provides a helpful spark for users experiencing common creative blocks
- Persistent launch failures prevent users from accessing the app despite having an active internet connection
5 of 5 recent reviews analyzed · limited sample
Read the full review analysisUnlock 1 more frustration theme, each backed by review evidence.
Access the full report for freeCompetition
Competitive landscape for English idioms in use
How's the Education market?
English Idioms in Use maintains a 4.67-star rating across 257 reviews, though the lack of updates since 2019 limits its position against modern, actively maintained language tools.
The rivals identified
The Analyst's Read
Key takeaways for English idioms in use
Where is it heading?
The language-learning market is consolidating around platforms with active, multi-week release cadences, leaving static reference tools like English Idioms in Use increasingly exposed. Without a stability patch to address the reported launch failures, the app will continue to lose its remaining user base to more reliable alternatives.
- Persistent launch failures in the latest version erode the daily active habit, which compounds the rating drag already visible on the App Store.
- The seven-year development gap signals that English Idioms in Use is in maintenance mode, leaving it exposed to modern, actively updated competitors.
The SWOT
- Interactive quiz modules with audio feedback provide a differentiator for active recall.
- Digital flashcard system offers a standard study mechanism for language retention.
- Integration of spaced-repetition algorithms could modernize the study loop for current learners.
- Expansion of the American slang dictionary could capture a segment currently underserved by static reference apps.
Next best moves
Audit launch sequence because persistent launch failures are the top-reported complaint → restore core accessibility
+ 1 more prioritized moveThe counter-intuitive read
The app's high rating despite seven years of…
Read the full takeSince the last report: The intelligence report has shifted from a recommendation of total abandonment to a more granular identification of specific technical and content-related maintenance tasks. This change reflects a more detailed audit of the app's existing strengths and potential paths for remediation.
Bottom line
The lack of development since 2019 leaves English Idioms in Use vulnerable to technical decay, and the reported launch failures suggest the app no longer functions for a portion of the user base. Prioritizing a stability patch would address the primary churn driver.
Unlock 3 critical frictions, 2 market threats, 1 more prioritized move and the analyst’s take.
Access the full report for freeFAQ
Is English Idioms in Use suitable for beginners?
Does English Idioms in Use work offline?
What is a free alternative to English Idioms in Use?
Sources
- [1] App Store, source
Report last updated