Доброго дня! Як справи?
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, more than 1.3 million people worldwide have started learning Ukrainian. This is a strong sign of support. Cindy Blanco from Duolingo says interest in Ukrainian has grown in many places, including Argentina, Japan, India, and across Europe. In Poland, demand rose by 2,677%.
People learn Ukrainian to show support and connect with the culture. In Germany, it became the 15th most popular language on Duolingo, up from 36th place.
Ukrainian is my second language after Russian. Lately, I’ve been working on it again. For me, it’s not just about speaking.
It’s a connection to history, culture, and identity. Learning it now also feels like an act of support.
If you want to learn Ukrainian online, I’ve tested different apps to see what works. Some are helpful, some have flaws. I’ve looked at them closely so you can find the best one for you.
Tried, tested, and rated—Which apps make learning Ukrainian easier?
I tested several apps to find the best way to learn Ukrainian. Here’s what I recommend:
Highly Recommended Apps:
- Mondly – A must-have for learning vocabulary efficiently.
- Lengo – Great for beginners, with a focus on practical words and an intuitive design.
- Ling – Offers structured lessons combining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights.
Recommended but Average Apps
- Glossika – Helps you learn full sentences rather than just individual words, best used after textbooks.
- italki & Preply – Reliable platforms for finding language tutors.
- Jicki-App – Uses “language showers” (short audio lessons) to create an immersive learning experience. The free version is available.
- Learn Ukrainian+ – A free app with basic vocabulary and exercises. Best for beginners but lacks depth for advanced learners.
- Promova – Offers flexible lessons and AI pronunciation feedback, but lacks live speaking practice and structured learning paths.
Less Recommended Apps
- Duolingo – Can be used for basics but isn’t essential. It’s free but not the most effective method.
- Mango Languages – Provides solid conversational exercises and native speaker audio, but is too simple for advanced learners and can be costly without a library subscription.
A bit later in this article, I’ll break down different language-learning apps and what they’re best for. But before we get into that, let’s take a closer look at Ukrainian and whether it’s an easy language to learn.
A Closer Look at the Ukrainian Language
Often overshadowed by Russian, Ukrainian has a rich cultural and historical background that makes it unique.
It’s the official language of Ukraine but is also spoken by millions in neighboring countries and among the Ukrainian diaspora worldwide.
Linguistically, Ukrainian belongs to the East Slavic branch of the Indo-European language family, sharing roots with Russian and Belarusian. However, it stands out with its own identity, blending influences from both Russian and Polish.
Linguistically, Ukrainian belongs to the East Slavic branch of the Indo-European language family, sharing roots with Russian and Belarusian. However, it stands out with its own identity, blending influences from both Russian and Polish.
How is Ukrainian Used in Daily Life? What Do Surveys Say?
According to a survey, 41% of Ukrainians primarily speak Ukrainian in their daily lives, while 17% use it in most situations. Only 6% rely solely on Russian, and 24% report using both languages equally.
BBC Ukraine reports that more people in the eastern and southern regions are now speaking Ukrainian. The percentage of Ukrainian speakers in these areas has risen to 29%, compared to 27% who still primarily use Russian.
At work or university, Ukrainian is used even more frequently than at home. Half of the respondents communicate exclusively in Ukrainian in professional settings, while only 4% prefer Russian. In general conversations, 18% speak Ukrainian, 7% Russian, and 19% switch between both languages.
Is Ukrainian Hard to Learn? The Biggest Challenges
Learning a new language is always an adventure—full of discoveries but also challenges. So, how difficult is it to learn Ukrainian?
From my experience, Ukrainian is quite different from Germanic languages like English and German. It’s not just about learning a new alphabet; the pronunciation, sentence structure, and phonetics can feel unfamiliar.
For many learners, grammar isn’t the hardest part. Instead, challenges come from vocabulary, pronunciation, reading, listening comprehension, and distinguishing similar sounds. A common difficulty is telling apart letters like “г” (h), “ґ” (g), and “х” (kh).
Let’s break down some key challenges of learning Ukrainian.
The Alphabet
One of the first hurdles for new learners is the Cyrillic alphabet, which is used to write Ukrainian. If you’ve only ever used the Latin alphabet, this can feel overwhelming at first.
However, like anything new, it just takes time to get used to. While it may seem challenging in the beginning, the Cyrillic script is actually quite logical and structured once you start recognizing patterns.
Pronunciation and Phonology
One of the tricky parts of learning Ukrainian is pronunciation. The language has unique sounds that don’t exist in many other languages. Getting the right stress and pronunciation can be tough, especially if you come from a completely different linguistic background. But with enough practice and careful listening, it becomes easier over time.
Grammar: Cases and Verb Conjugation
Ukrainian grammar is another challenge. Nouns change based on their role in a sentence (declension), and verbs change depending on tense and subject (conjugation).
The Six Cases
One of the biggest hurdles for learners is the six-case system, which determines how nouns and adjectives change depending on their function in a sentence. It may seem overwhelming at first, but regular practice and immersion can make a big difference in mastering it.
Vocabulary
Ukrainian has a rich vocabulary with many words shared across Slavic languages. At the same time, it has plenty of unique words, like “баритися” (to delay) or “гарний” (good), that don’t exist in other Slavic languages.
The language has borrowed words from Ancient Greek, Latin, German, French, and English over time. The most common way new words are formed is through affixation—adding prefixes or suffixes to root words.
For more vocabulary tips, check out our guides:
Syntax (Sentence Structure)
Ukrainian generally follows a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) word order, but in many cases, the word order is flexible. The sentence structure blends different patterns, making it somewhat unique.
The accusative case is commonly used to mark direct objects, and conjunctions help link predicates. A distinct feature of Ukrainian syntax is the use of impersonal sentences, where verbs end in -no or -to (e.g., зроблено – “it was done”). The object of these sentences depends on the context.
From Duolingo to Mondly: Comparing the Best Apps for Learning Ukrainian
A little background about me—I was born in Kyiv but went to school in Yalta, Crimea. Back then, in a Russian-language school, I learned Ukrainian as a foreign language and also heard it on TV and radio. I understand Ukrainian well and know the grammar, but speaking fluently is a different story.
Since I left Ukraine over 20 years ago, I haven’t actively used the language, so my speaking skills have faded. That’s why I was excited to try out different apps for learning Ukrainian.
I tested the most well-known language learning apps, evaluating them based on key criteria like learning methods, costs, language features, strengths, and weaknesses. You’ll find the details of my testing process later in this article.
#1. Jicki App
While searching for new ways to learn Ukrainian, I came across the Jicki App. It promises a unique approach: learning through listening. Naturally, I was curious—could this method really work?
The app offers a free basic version, but full access to all lessons costs around €9.95 per month. Jicki uses “language showers”—short, engaging audio lessons that immerse you in Ukrainian within real-life contexts.
User reviews are mixed. Some learners love the natural listening approach and report quick progress, while others feel the method is too passive and wish for more visual learning tools. The app is available for both Android and iOS, making it easily accessible.
Why choose Jicki for learning Ukrainian?
- Offers free resources, including detailed grammar explanations and vocabulary lists
- Focuses on listening and speaking, helping with pronunciation and confidence.
- Uses the proven 3-step method: listen, understand, speak.
Personally, I think it’s an interesting concept, but listening alone isn’t enough to fully master a language. It works well as a supplement, but for real fluency, you’ll need to practice reading, writing, and conversation too.
Drawbacks:
- The Ukrainian course is only suitable for absolute beginners.
- It includes just 12 lessons in total.
#2. preply
Taking private lessons is one of the most effective ways to learn a language, including Ukrainian. Preply connects learners with professional tutors who offer structured lessons through a virtual classroom. This setup allows for real-time interaction with both teachers and other students.
Preply goes beyond just language learning—it also provides cultural insights, which can be helpful for understanding the language in context. Lessons are tailored to individual needs, and students can choose their tutor based on teaching style, experience, and budget. Prices vary, but most lessons range from €10 to €30 per hour. The process is simple: pick a tutor, schedule a trial lesson, and start learning via video chat.
Most users appreciate the personalized learning experience and the ability to track progress. However, some have reported occasional technical issues with the platform. The app is available on both desktop and mobile devices (iOS & Android), making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.
Why choose Preply for learning Ukrainian?
- Find the right tutor – Choose from a wide selection of teachers to match your learning style.
- Know your level – Take a placement test to assess your skills before starting.
- Learn through real conversation – Preply emphasizes speaking practice to help learners build confidence naturally.
Drawbacks:
- Unlike other platforms that offer free trial periods, Preply charges for every lesson from the start.
- While trial lessons are often available at a discounted rate, there is no free trial for regular courses.
- Another concern is the tutor selection process. Preply seems to accept almost anyone as a tutor, rather than carefully selecting highly qualified teachers. This means your experience may depend on luck—you could find a great tutor, or you might end up with someone less reliable.
#3. Glossika
I’ve tried many language learning tools, but Glossika really stood out. Instead of grammar lessons or vocabulary lists, it helps you learn through real sentences spoken by native speakers.
The app includes 3,000 common phrases recorded in both your native language (L1) and your target language (L2). You listen to them at natural speed, which helps train your brain to recognize how words and phrases fit together in everyday speech.
One thing to know—Glossika doesn’t explain grammar. Instead, you absorb the language naturally by hearing and repeating full sentences. If you like structured lessons, you might need to use it alongside other resources, like textbooks.
It’s especially helpful for overcoming listening challenges. Even if you know a lot of words, real conversations can feel overwhelming. Glossika helps you get used to the flow of the language, so you don’t get stuck translating every word in your head.
Why choose Glossika for learning Ukrainian?
- Pricing: Costs $30/month (or $25/month annually), so it’s not the cheapest option.
- No Distractions: No points or games—just straight language training.
- Effective for Fluency: If you want to improve listening and speaking, it’s a great tool.
Drawbacks:
- No direct grammar lessons – You pick up Ukrainian grammar naturally from context, much like Duolingo.
- On the expensive side – Costs $17/month for one language or $31/month for all 64 languages.
- Can feel repetitive – The learning method may not suit everyone.
- Not beginner-friendly – Best for learners with some prior knowledge.
- Translation quality varies – Some translations could be clearer.
#4. italki
italki makes language learning personal by connecting you with real tutors for one-on-one lessons. Instead of memorizing words and grammar on your own, you practice speaking with native speakers, making learning more natural and interactive.
Lesson prices start at around €5 per hour, depending on the tutor. The process is simple—choose a teacher, book a session, and meet via video chat. Many learners love the variety of tutors, but some mention that finding the right one can take time.
italki works on PC, Mac, Android, and iOS, making it easy to learn wherever you are. It’s great if you want to improve your Ukrainian with real conversations while also gaining cultural insights.
Why choose italki for learning Ukrainian?
- Flexible tutoring – Find a teacher who fits your level and schedule.
- Affordable lessons – Many classes cost under $10 per hour.
- Customized learning – Lessons are tailored to your needs and goals.
Drawbacks:
- Not all tutors are professionals – Teaching styles vary.
- Finding the right tutor takes effort – Choosing the best match can take time.
- Lessons require booking in advance – No instant sessions available
#5. Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the most popular language apps, with millions of users learning 27 languages. It makes learning fun with short, game-like lessons, instant feedback, and an easy-to-use design.
You can use Duolingo for free on iOS, Android, and PC, but if you want to remove ads and unlock extra features, there’s a €12.99/month subscription.
The app is beginner-friendly and lets you start at the right level with a quick placement test. Daily reminders and a progress tracker help keep you motivated.
Why choose Duolingo for learning Ukrainian?
- Free with ads – A simple way to start learning without paying.
- Listening and vocabulary practice – Helps with pronunciation and word recognition.
- Fun, interactive lessons – Keeps learning engaging and rewarding.
- Easy to use – Simple layout makes lessons quick and accessible.
Drawbacks:
- Random words and phrases – Some vocabulary isn’t immediately useful.
- Heavy on translation – Focuses more on English-to-Ukrainian translations than full immersion.
- Can feel repetitive – Advanced learners may find it too basic.
- Limited access – The Ukrainian course is only available for English speakers.
#6. Mondly
Since I use Mondly to learn multiple languages, I know the app well. I also tried learning Ukrainian on Mondly with my German husband, Daniel.
Mondly is an interactive language learning app designed to make studying fun. It helps improve writing, speaking, reading, and listening skills through engaging and easy-to-follow lessons.
Mondly offers different subscription plans: a monthly subscription costs 10 euros, a yearly subscription is 48 euros, and a lifetime access option is available for 99 euros.
The app’s main dashboard is designed as an interactive map, with icons representing different topics. You can scroll left or right to explore these learning points. Topics include weather, travel, family, and more, with each topic usually containing 6 to 8 lessons.
Mondly is easy to use and guides you through practical, real-life scenarios. The lessons are short and to the point, usually taking 5 to 15 minutes, making it easy to fit learning into your day.
Why choose Mondly for learning Ukrainian?
- 5,000-word vocabulary trainer – A solid resource for learning key words.
- Choose your own topics – Study what interests you, from family to career.
- Virtual Reality lessons – Offers an immersive way to practice.
- Good value for money – The yearly plan is affordable for what you get.
Things to Consider:
- Mostly for beginners – Lessons focus on A1–A2 levels, which may not be ideal for advanced learners.
- Limited grammar explanations – Focuses more on vocabulary with little support for sentence structure.
- Repetitive exercises – Following the same lesson structure across languages can feel monotonous.
#7. Learn Ukrainian+
Learn Ukrainian+ is completely free, which is a big plus! It focuses on essential vocabulary with clear pictures to make learning easier. Right from the start, the layout feels simple and beginner-friendly. Words and phrases are broken into small, interactive exercises, making it less overwhelming.
The quizzes were a highlight for me—they test reading, writing, and listening in a way that’s both fun and challenging. I also liked the review mode, which lets you go back to past lessons to reinforce what you’ve learned. The app is easy to navigate, and the offline mode makes it super convenient for learning anywhere.
Earning medals along the way adds motivation, but keep in mind the app focuses mainly on basic skills. If you’re looking for advanced grammar or complex lessons, you may need extra resources. Since it’s self-paced, staying consistent is up to you.
Why choose Learn Ukrainian+ for learning Ukrainian?
- Fun and Interactive Exercises – Quizzes and activities help you practice reading, writing, and listening in an engaging way.
- Review Mode – Go back to previous lessons to reinforce vocabulary and make sure everything sticks.
- Offline Learning – No internet? No problem! Study anytime, whether on your commute or at home.
- Motivation Through Rewards – Earn medals for your progress, keeping learning exciting and encouraging consistency.
Drawbacks:
- Focuses on basic language skills
- Lacks advanced grammar and complex language topics.
- Additional resources may be needed for deeper learning.
#8. LENGO
LENGO is a language app focused on helping you build vocabulary and practical language skills quickly. With features like spaced repetition, offline access, and interactive exercises, it’s a handy tool for beginners and intermediate learners.
I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it is to get started. LENGO’s focus on practical vocabulary makes it great for everyday conversations. The app uses repetition to help you remember words—like seeing the word дякую (“thank you”) pop up in different exercises until it felt natural. This smart method keeps new learners on track. Plus, the instant feedback is super helpful. You get quick corrections, so you always know what to work on.
The app’s simple design makes it easy to navigate, even if you’re not tech-savvy. The streak tracker and little rewards are a fun touch that keep you motivated to stick with daily practice.
However, the free version is pretty limited. It’s great for getting started, but you’ll need a subscription to unlock everything. And since there’s no set schedule or live interaction, staying consistent depends on your own motivation.
Why choose LENGO for learning Ukrainian?
- Build Vocabulary Easily – LENGO focuses on Ukrainian words and phrases, using spaced repetition to help you remember them long-term.
- Engaging Practice – Includes listening, reading, and writing exercises to make learning more interactive.
- Offline Learning – No internet? No problem! You can keep learning anytime, anywhere.
- Simple and User-Friendly – The app is easy to navigate, so you can track your progress without hassle.
- Cultural Insights – Learn more than just language—get a glimpse into Ukrainian culture, too.
Things to Consider:
- Limited Grammar Lessons – LENGO is great for vocabulary, but if you need deep grammar explanations, you may need extra resources.
- Subscription Needed for Full Access – The free version is useful, but many advanced features require a paid plan.
#9. Mango Languages
Mango Languages is all about real-life conversations, making it a great choice if you want to learn phrases you’ll actually use. The native speaker audio really helps with pronunciation—it’s like having a patient tutor repeating tricky Ukrainian words until you get them right. The course starts with simple greetings and everyday phrases before moving on to full sentences, making it easy to follow and gradually build confidence.
I found the spaced repetition system especially helpful. Just when I started to forget a word like “дякую” (thank you), the app reminded me to review it, ensuring it stuck. Another big plus is how convenient it is—I’d listen to lessons on autoplay while walking or download them for offline learning during a commute.
That said, Mango might feel a bit basic for advanced learners. And while some libraries offer free access, if you have to pay for a subscription, it might feel a little expensive for what’s included.
Why choose Mango Languages for learning Ukrainian?
- Free Access Through Libraries and Institutions – Many public libraries and organizations offer Mango Languages for free, making it an affordable learning option.
- User-Friendly and Well-Designed – The app has a clear and modern layout, making it easy and enjoyable to use for learners of all levels.
- Effective Repetition – Lessons reinforce everyday phrases and words, ensuring that you remember and apply what you’ve learned.
- Cultural Insights – Built-in cultural notes provide useful explanations that deepen your understanding of the language and its use.
Things to Consider:
- Repetitive Lessons – The learning method can feel monotonous over time, as exercises and instructions tend to repeat.
- No Focus on the Cyrillic Alphabet – The app doesn’t introduce the Ukrainian alphabet, which could be a challenge for beginners.
- No Progress Tracking – There’s no scoring system to measure progress, which may affect motivation.
- Limited Grammar Practice – The app lacks in-depth grammar exercises, making it less suitable for learners who want a stronger foundation.
- Unreliable Translations – Mango relies on Google Translate, which can result in inconsistent or inaccurate explanations.
#10. Promova
Promova offers a mix of short lessons, vocabulary practice, and real-life conversation topics. One thing I liked right away is the flexibility—you can choose between self-paced lessons, private tutoring, or group classes. The option to select your preferred language for explanations is also a thoughtful touch.
The Ukrainian course is simple and easy to follow. Lessons are short (about five minutes), making it easy to stay consistent. Visual aids help with remembering words, and the AI pronunciation tool is useful for getting tricky sounds like “дякую” (thank you) just right.
The app is clean and easy to navigate, but it does have some gaps. There’s no live conversation practice with native speakers, which could be a drawback for those wanting real interaction. Also, the lessons sometimes feel unstructured, which may not work well for learners who prefer a clear step-by-step approach.
Why choose Promova for learning Ukrainian?
- Short, engaging lessons – Quick and easy-to-follow lessons make learning enjoyable and efficient.
- Focus on everyday language – Conversational approach helps you use Ukrainian in real-life situations.
- Modern design – The app has a clean interface, with clear visuals and intuitive navigation.
- Seamless learning experience – Syncs perfectly between mobile and web, so you can study anywhere.
- Strong vocabulary practice – Great for quickly building and reinforcing new words.
Things to Consider:
- Limited grammar lessons – Few dedicated sections for deeper grammar explanations.
- No speaking practice – Lacks interactive exercises to improve spoken fluency.
- Few multimedia resources – No video content and limited audio features for varied learning.
#11. Ling
Ling offers structured lessons for over 60 languages, including Ukrainian, with a focus on grammar, vocabulary, and conversational skills. The lessons are divided into themes like greetings, travel, and daily life, making it easy to learn step by step.
Right away, I liked how simple and user-friendly the app is—perfect for beginners. The Ukrainian course covers practical basics, like introducing yourself or ordering food, without feeling overwhelming. One of my favorite features is the “Culture Notes,” which go beyond words and introduce Ukrainian traditions, adding a personal touch to learning. Plus, the native speaker audio helps with pronunciation.
The interactive lessons keep things engaging with matching games, quick quizzes, and a progress tracker to stay motivated. However, if you’re already advanced, the content might feel too basic. Also, while the app includes speech recognition, it doesn’t provide much real speaking practice.
Why choose Ling for learning Ukrainian?
- Real-life conversations: Practice everyday dialogues in practical scenarios.
- Native speaker audio: Hear both male and female voices to improve pronunciation.
- Useful vocabulary: Learn words and phrases that you can use right away.
- Balanced gamification: Fun activities keep learning engaging without feeling overwhelming.
- Quick and varied lessons: Easy-to-follow activities that take just a few minutes to complete.
Things to Consider:
- No word translations: The lack of direct translations can make vocabulary learning harder.
- No alphabet lessons: Beginners won’t find dedicated lessons for learning the Ukrainian alphabet.
- Limited grammar explanations: The app doesn’t provide in-depth grammar rules, which may slow progress.
- Technical issues: Occasional bugs in exercises can disrupt the learning experience.
Final Thoughts
If you want to learn Ukrainian, it’s best to mix different methods. Use textbooks, online tutorials, flashcards (printed or digital), writing exercises, reading practice, video lessons on platforms like YouTube, and, of course, language learning apps.
From my experience, no app is perfect—each has its strengths and weaknesses. Duolingo and Mondly are great for beginners, while platforms like italki or Preply offer deeper learning and real conversation practice. There’s no single way to learn a language, so choose what works best for you.
Apps can be a great starting point, but they can also feel more like a game than real learning. For lasting progress, I recommend combining apps with traditional learning methods.
Успіхів Вам у вивченні української мови!
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Disclaimer: I select and review independently. If you buy through affiliate links, I may earn commissions that help support my testing at no extra cost to you. Please read my full disclosure for more information.
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