English vocabulary size test online

A free test that estimates how many words you know in English. It samples words from across the frequency spectrum — common to rare — and, from the ones you recognise, extrapolates your total vocabulary size and a CEFR level. Made-up words are mixed in to keep the estimate honest.

How to take the test

1
Mark the words you know

Tap every word whose meaning you know — be honest.

2
Calculate

Press the button to see your estimated vocabulary size.

3
See your level

Get a word count, a CEFR estimate and a band breakdown.

Estimate your English vocabulary size in two minutes

Loading the test…

Features

Science-based sampling
CEFR level estimate
Two minutes, no sign-up
Catches over-claiming
Works in your browser

What you can do

  • Estimate how many English words you know
  • Get a CEFR level (A1–C2) from your vocabulary size
  • See which frequency bands you know well and which you don't
  • Take the test as many times as you like with fresh words
  • Share your result

How the estimate works

Your vocabulary cannot be counted word by word — but it can be sampled. The test draws words evenly from every frequency band, from the 1000 most common up to the 16,000 mark. If you know, say, two of three sampled words in a band, you likely know about two-thirds of that band — roughly 670 words. Adding that up across all bands gives a solid estimate. Invented words are mixed in: marking them as known reveals over-confidence and is corrected for.

Frequently asked questions

How accurate is the result?

It is a statistical estimate, not an exact count. The sampling method is the standard one used in vocabulary research; expect the figure to be in the right range, not exact to the word.

Why are some words obviously made up?

Those are traps. If you mark invented words as known, the test knows you are over-estimating and lowers the result to compensate.

What counts as “knowing” a word?

Being able to recall its meaning. You do not need to be able to use it perfectly — receptive knowledge is what this measures.

How is the CEFR level worked out?

From your estimated vocabulary size, using typical word-count ranges for each CEFR level. It is an indication, not an official placement.

Can I take it again?

Yes — each run draws a fresh set of words, so you can retest any time.

You May Also Like

🎴 Anki Deck Builder 🔗 English Collocations ✍️ English Dictation Practice 🎭 English False Friends 📘 English Grammar Course 🔁 English Irregular Verbs 📊 English Level Converter 🎯 English Level Test

How do you rate this tool?

Thank you for your rating!
Want to share more? Leave a comment!
Thank you! Your comment will appear after moderation.
Who is this tool for?
🎓 Students 🗣️ Language Learners
Published Updated Authors: