Distinction - Words & Phrases
English Vocabulary in Use
Only for iPhone
Free · In‑App Purchases · Designed for iPhone. Not verified for macOS.
Welcome to the Distinction world. Distinction is an innovative vocabulary book series that includes carefully selected words and phrases that native speakers frequently use on a daily basis but are rarely encountered in typical ESL materials. Get full access to the Distinction series including natural example sentences, native speed audio, origins, detailed explanations, all in one app. Experience fast-paced learning through spaced repetition based Study Mode. Completely ad-free. One-time fee per Distinction and no subscription. It can be used offline. Try Distinction App to embark on a new journey of English learning.
Features:
・Get full access to the Distinction series anytime, anywhere.
・Vocabulary selection and example sentence creation conducted in collaboration with 5 native English speakers (3 Americans, 1 Australian, 1 British).
・Access 2130 carefully selected words and phrases that native speakers frequently use on a daily basis but are rarely encountered in typical ESL materials (2130 is the total of Distinction I, II, III, IV, V, Structures).
・Access 4520 practical example sentences (4520 is the total of Distinction I, II, III, IV, V, Structures).
・Read origins and detailed explanations of all of the included words and phrases.
・Check the meaning of words and phrases in English.
・Speak naturally with IPA phonetic symbols modified in line with sound reductions and liaisons.
・Create your own study plan based on your time availability and a daily vocabulary target.
・Enjoy studying as if you were playing a game.
・Stay motivated with streaks, levels, and XP.
・Achieve efficient memorization with spaced repetition based Study Mode, which reminds you of vocabulary when you’re about to forget it (Active Recall).
・Get the in-app certificate by successfully completing your study plan.
・Search for words throughout Distinction.
・Practice your pronunciation with speech recognition (available only for main vocabulary, excluding Structures).
・Filter, play, and shuffle audio.
・Get the full picture of your study progress through comprehensive graphs and statistics.
・One-time fee per Distinction, no subscription.
・Try all functions for free*
・Can be used offline without worrying about traffic.
*Limited to 100 words + 7 structures. You can unlock all words/structures through In-App Purchases.
more It’s perfect for learning conversational English. I really needed this.
It’s perfect for learning conversational English. I really needed this.
海外で仕事をしています。勉強の技術と呼ばれ難語をクリア-にする正確な技術を使って学んでいますが、英和辞典には限界があり、英英辞典ではさらにわからない単語にでくわすといった悲劇に見舞われてました。コミュニケーションで伝えようとする意図が何かが例文や語源を通じて理解できるように構成されてているので、自分で例文を作るヒントになり、例文を何度も作って、概念的な理解を得ることが容易にできるようになりました。意図を受け止めることに難しさを抱えていましたが、できるようになってきている実感があります。
海外で仕事をしています。勉強の技術と呼ばれ難語をクリア-にする正確な技術を使って学んでいますが、英和辞典には限界があり、英英辞典ではさらにわからない単語にでくわすといった悲劇に見舞われてました。コミュニケーションで伝えようとする意図が何かが例文や語源を通じて理解できるように構成されてているので、自分で例文を作るヒントになり、例文を何度も作って、概念的な理解を得ることが容易にできるようになりました。意図を受け止めることに難しさを抱えていましたが、できるようになってきている実感があります。
スマートフォンでの学習のみならずiPadを利用して学習したいので、表示のフォーマットを拡張して欲しい。
スマートフォンでの学習のみならずiPadを利用して学習したいので、表示のフォーマットを拡張して欲しい。
【Improvements & Fixes】
- Fixed challenge mode lap count display: Resolved an issue where lap counts could appear as 0 or less than one lap in some cases. Existing learning records are now reflected correctly.
- Fixed an issue where the "Note" button on the learning screen could disappear when using iPad multitasking with another app.
We hope this update helps with your daily learning.
If you enjoy the app, we'd love to hear from you — please leave a review or rating!
2.3.7 Feb 24
【Improvements & Fixes】
- Improved achievement screen usability: You can now hide the study report button from the Settings screen, making it easier to dismiss the achievement screen.
We hope this update helps with your daily learning.
If you enjoy the app, we'd love to hear from you — please leave a review or rating!
2.3.6 Feb 21
【Improvements & Fixes】
- Fixed notification bug: Resolved an issue where daily reminders were still sent after being turned OFF.
2.3.5 Feb 12
【New Features】
- Studyplus integration: You can now share your learning activity from the app directly to Studyplus.
【Improvements & Fixes】
- Improved stability: Fixed an issue that could cause the app to crash under certain conditions.
We hope this update helps support your daily learning.
If you enjoy using the app, we’d really appreciate it if you could leave a review or rating.
2.3.4 Feb 9
New Features
- Learning Reminders: Get notified at your chosen time to build a consistent daily study habit.
- Distinction Challenge Notifications: Stay up to date with challenge announcements and track your progress during events.
- Information Updates: Be the first to know about new content and app updates.
Improvements and Fixes
- Smoother Study Reports: Create and edit study reports in the app, both during challenges and in normal study mode.
- Easier Sharing of Achievements: Share your progress and completion certificates for each book just like a study report.
- Improved Learning Records: Audio playback time is now included in your study history.
- Stability Improvements: Fixed minor issues related to study plan settings.
We hope this update supports your daily learning. If you’re enjoying the app, we’d appreciate a review or rating.
2.3.3 Jan 29
・Added support for iOS 26’s new “Liquid Glass” design.
・Fixed minor bugs and improved stability.
Distinction App will continue to support your vocabulary growth. If you enjoy using the app, we’d really appreciate your support with a 5-star review on the App Store.
2.3.2 10/01/2025
・You can now refresh the Account screen by opening it or by pulling down to update to the latest status.
・Fixed typos in book content.
Distinction App will continue to support your vocabulary development. If you enjoy the app, we'd appreciate your support with a 5‑star review on the App Store.
2.3.1 09/07/2025
Released: Distinction VI
・New content: We’ve added “Distinction VI,” the 7th book in the Distinction series. It includes 400 new English expressions and 800 example sentences to help you build practical vocabulary.
・New setting: You can now disable automatic audio playback on the Learning screen.
Settings: Today > Settings > Auto Play Audio
Distinction App continues to support your vocabulary growth. If you enjoy the app, we’d appreciate a 5‑star review on the App Store.
2.3.0 09/06/2025
• Minor bug fixes and stability improvements.
We are committed to continuously improving the app based on your valuable feedback, so we can better support your English learning journey.
Thank you for your continued support!
2.2.27 06/20/2025
• Minor bug fixes and stability improvements.
We are committed to continuously improving the app based on your valuable feedback, so we can better support your English learning journey.
Thank you for your continued support!
2.2.26 06/19/2025
• Fixed an issue where a "Download Required" alert appeared even though the paid content had already been downloaded.
- This issue occurred on some devices under specific conditions. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. If you still see a "Download" button on the "Account" screen, please try downloading the content again.
We’re committed to continuously improving the quality of the app based on your valuable feedback, so we can better support your English learning journey.
Thank you for your continued support!
2.2.25 06/17/2025
\You can now customize when your “day” starts/
Even if you study late at night, it still counts toward your daily goal—perfect for night owls.
You can change this setting via “Today” > “Settings.”
• Fixed an issue where study sessions couldn’t be started while offline.
– You can now study with confidence even in places with poor connectivity, such as on a plane or in areas with unstable networks.
• Addressed an issue where a “Download Required” alert appeared even though paid content had already been downloaded.
– This issue has been observed on certain devices under specific conditions. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. We are currently investigating the root cause, and have implemented a temporary workaround. If the problem persists, we’d greatly appreciate it if you could contact us.
The Distinction App is here to fully support your vocabulary-building journey.
We hope this update brings you an even smoother learning experience.
If you’re enjoying the app, we’d be truly grateful for your support with a ⋱5-star review⋰!
2.2.24 06/16/2025
• Fixed an issue where notes deleted due to a problem in the previous version (v.2.2.20) can now be restored.
- We sincerely apologize for the concern and inconvenience caused. We deeply regret the trouble this may have caused. After updating, deleted notes will be automatically restored when you open the app.
- Please note that this applies to notes for users who have been using the app since version v.2.2.19 or earlier. Unfortunately, if you installed v.2.2.20 or v.2.2.21 as a new user, it may be difficult to restore deleted notes. We kindly ask for your understanding.
We will continue to improve the quality of our app based on your feedback to better support your English learning.
Thank you for your continued support.
2.2.23 06/12/2025
• We have resolved the issue that caused notes to be deleted
- We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. There is a possibility that your previously saved notes can be restored. Please long-press “Contact Distinction App Support” from “Account,” select “Send Data,” and then email your inquiry via “Contact Distinction App Support.”
• We have improved the issue that caused the Browse screen to freeze
We will continue to improve quality based on your feedback so that we can better support your English learning.
Thank you for your continued support.
2.2.22 06/10/2025
• Improved the display during premium content downloads on the Account screen
- When a download is in a pending state, an indicator is shown so the progress is clearly visible
• Added an information button to the purchase records on the Account screen
- For content in which the purchase status isn’t reflected, please refer to the FAQ for guidance
• Fixed a crashing issue in the app
- Crashes occurring under specific conditions were detected and fixed, resulting in more stable performance
If you have any feedback or requests regarding the app, please send us an email via “Account” > “Contact Distinction App Support” within the app.
We would be greatly encouraged if you enjoy using the app and leave us a high‑rated review (⋱ 5 stars ⋰). We will continue to improve quality based on your feedback so that we can better support your English learning.
Thank you for your continued support.
2.2.21 06/09/2025
\This update brings major improvements to your search and learning experience/
● “Search” screen
- Added categories for “Notes,” “Today’s Learning,” “Mastery Level,” and “Rating.”
- Enables AND searches with multiple conditions for more accurate results
- Notes contents are now searchable
- Added filter options to each category for quicker access to relevant information
- Added delete functionality to “Bookmarks” and “History”
- If a keyword appears in an explanation, the relevant explanation will now be shown in the search results
● “Browse” screen
- Now supports filtering by mastery level to help you find words that match your current proficiency
● “Learning” screen
- Added the option to hide the word, its synonym, and example sentences at the top until tapped, for a listen-first approach
- Added “Set as Mastered” to remove known words from your learning list, making progress more efficient
● “Pronunciation Practice” screen
- The “Next” button now skips to unanswered or incorrect words
- “Mark as Correct” lets you fix words that the system fails to recognize
● “Account” screen
- Added an FAQ section for quick reference on common questions
- Now offers an easier device-transfer process, letting you preserve your progress and seamlessly continue learning on a new device
● Other
- Tapping a tab now scrolls to the top of the screen
- Updated internal libraries
- Fixed minor bugs and typos
Distinction App remains committed to helping you expand your vocabulary.
We hope you enjoy this update!
If you find the app helpful, please consider a 5-star review. More updates are on the way!
2.2.20 06/04/2025
・Updated the design of the alert that appears when bookmarking/unbookmarking.
・Added display of purchase records for "Distinction 2000 App" on the "Browse" screen.
・Implemented updates for various libraries.
If you have any feedback or suggestions regarding the app, please feel free to send them via direct message (DM) to our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp. Additionally, we also accept emails through "Account" > "Contact Distinction App Support" within the app.
To facilitate smooth assistance, please paste the copied account information from pressing and holding "Contact Distinction App Support" in Twitter DMs or email us while signed into the app.
Your support and encouragement through favorable reviews (⋱5 stars⋰) would be greatly appreciated by the developers. We will continue striving for quality improvements based on the feedback received to assist you better in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
2.2.19 03/19/2024
・There was an error in part of the book's content, so we have corrected it.
・We have resolved the issue with the non-functional audio playback stop button.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and express our gratitude to those who reported it.
If you have any feedback or requests regarding the app, please feel free to send us a direct message (DM) on our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp.
We also accept emails via "Account" > "Contact Distinction App Support" within the app.
To facilitate smooth handling, you can paste the copied account information for "Contact Distinction App Support" in Twitter DMs or send us an email while signed in to the app.
Your appreciation of this app, including high-rated reviews (⋱5 stars⋰), would greatly encourage the developers.
We will continue to strive for quality improvement based on your feedback to assist you in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
2.2.18 03/05/2024
・Now you can use the app while listening to music on services like "Apple Music"!
・We have addressed the following issues*. We apologize for any inconvenience caused:
- Issue where audio playback automatically stops during use
- Issue of multiple audio playback
- Issue where audio switches to the device's speaker when Bluetooth earphones disconnect during playback.
- Issue where the "Today" screen doesn't update after completing "Today's Practice"
* These issues may not have been resolved due to dependencies on the device or operating system. If so, please contact us.
If you have any feedback or suggestions about the app, please feel free to send us a direct message (DM) on our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp.
Alternatively, you can also reach us via email through "Account" > "Inquiries to Distinction App Support" within the app.
For swift assistance, please paste the account information copied by long-pressing "Inquiries to Distinction App Support" on Twitter DM or send an email while signed into the app.
Your support is greatly appreciated. Giving us a high rating (⋱5 stars⋰) would be a great encouragement for the developers.
We will continue striving for quality improvement based on your feedback to assist you in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
2.2.17 03/04/2024
We apologize for the inconvenience, but we have identified a bug in version 2.2.15 where selecting "Audio" on devices running iOS 17 or later causes the app to crash.
If you have any feedback or suggestions regarding the app, please feel free to send them via direct message (DM) to our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp. Additionally, we accept emails through "Account" > "Inquiries to Distinction App Support" within the app.
To facilitate a smooth resolution, you can either paste the copied account information by long-pressing "Inquiries to Distinction App Support" in Twitter DMs, or send an email while signed into the app.
Your positive reviews (⋱5 stars⋰) would be greatly appreciated as they serve as encouragement for our developers. We are committed to improving the quality based on the feedback we receive to assist you further in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your continued support.
2.2.16 02/09/2024
We have fixed the issue causing the app to crash immediately upon opening. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
If you have any feedback or suggestions regarding the app, please feel free to send them via direct message (DM) to our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp. Additionally, we also accept emails through the "Account" > "Inquiries to Distinction App Support" section within the app.
To ensure smooth assistance, you can either paste the copied account information by long-pressing "Inquiries to Distinction App Support" on Twitter DM, or send an email while signed in to the app.
Your appreciation of the app and high-rating reviews (⋱5 stars⋰) would greatly encourage our developers. We strive to improve the quality based on your feedback to continue assisting you in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
2.2.15 02/08/2024
・Added a "Reset" button on the "Filter" screen, along with "Select All" and "Deselect All" buttons for each item. This makes it easier to narrow down the learning scope!
If you have any feedback or requests regarding the app, please feel free to reach out to us through direct messages (DM) on our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp. Additionally, we also accept inquiries via email through the "Account" > "Contact Distinction App Support" section within the app.
To expedite the support process, you can copy and paste the account information that appears when you long-press the "Contact Distinction App Support" in DM on Twitter, or you can send us an email while signed in to the app.
Your favorable support and high-rating reviews (⋱5 stars⋰) would be highly motivating for the developers. We will continue to strive for quality improvement based on the feedback received to assist you better in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your continued support!
2.2.14 07/21/2023
・Resolved an issue on the "Learning" screen where swiping gestures from "Word" to "Synonym" or from "Synonym" to "Word" would cause scrolling to a different item.
・Resolved screen flickering that occurs when displaying the "Learning" screen in Dark Mode.
If you have any feedback or suggestions regarding the app, please feel free to reach out to us via direct message (DM) on our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp.
Alternatively, we also accept emails through the "Account" > "Contact Distinction App Support" option within the app.
To ensure smooth assistance, you can paste the copied account information by long-pressing the "Contact Distinction App Support" option in Twitter DM, or you can send it via email while signed in to the app.
We would greatly appreciate it if you enjoy this app and could provide us with a positive review (⋱5-star rating⋰). It serves as great encouragement for our developers.
We will continue striving for quality improvements based on the feedback we receive to assist you in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your continued support.
2.2.13 07/19/2023
・In response to user feedback, we have added an "Undo" feature in the "Learning" screen. If you press the wrong button ("Easy"/"Normal"/"Hard"), you can now long-press the screen and press the "Undo" button to redo the previous word.
・Resolved the issue where scrolling to the bottom of the "Learning" screen was not possible.
・Fixed the bug where creating a new note in the "Learning" screen and then displaying another item would clear the note.
We sincerely appreciate the valuable feedback and bug reports we have received about the app.
If you have any other feedback or requests regarding the app, please don't hesitate to send them through the "Account" > "Contact Distinction App Support" section within the app. Alternatively, you can also reach us through direct messages (DMs) on our official Twitter account, @DistinctionApp. To ensure a smooth response, please sign in to the app and send us an email or paste the copied account information from long-pressing the "Contact Distinction App Support" option in DMs on Twitter.
We would be greatly encouraged if you enjoy using this app and could leave a positive review (⋱5 stars⋰). We will continue to strive for quality improvement based on the feedback we receive in order to assist you in your English learning journey.
Thank you once again for your continued support.
2.2.12 07/17/2023
・We have responded to numerous requests and made it possible to create, display, and edit "notes" in the "Study" screen.
・You can now easily bookmark headwords, example sentences, and synonyms from the "Study" screen.
・In the "Goal Settings" screen, you can set the maximum number of multiple words.
・We have resolved the issue where unrelated words were selected as review words when changing the learning goal.
・We have corrected some typographical errors in the book content.
We sincerely appreciate valuable feedback on the app and any reports of issues or typographical errors.
If you have any other opinions or requests regarding the app, please feel free to send them via the "Account" > "Contact Distinction App Support" option within the app. We also accept inquiries through direct messages (DMs) to our official Twitter account @DistinctionApp. To ensure a smooth response, please provide your account information by copying the "Contact Distinction App Support" message and pasting it in an email while signed in to the app or in a Twitter DM.
Your positive reviews (⋱5-star rating⋰) would greatly encourage the developers. We will continue to strive for quality improvement based on the feedback we receive to assist you in your English learning journey.
Thank you for your continued support.
2.2.11 07/15/2023
【Improvements & Fixes】
- Fixed challenge mode lap count display: Resolved an issue where lap counts could appear as 0 or less than one lap in some cases. Existing learning records are now reflected correctly.
- Fixed an issue where the "Note" button on the learning screen could disappear when using iPad multitasking with another app.
We hope this update helps with your daily learning.
If you enjoy the app, we'd love to hear from you — please leave a review or rating!
more Version 2.3.7 Feb 24
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