Keep the meaning in English.
Get an English explanation and an example, rather than a translation. Build a connection between the word and what it means.
COMPREHENSIBLE INPUT, IN YOUR BROWSER
Keep reading.
Keep it English.
Meet a word you don’t know?
Understand it with English you do know.
Read English explains selected words, phrases, and sentences at your reading level. Right on the page. So you can stay with the story.
Free & open source Your own AI API key
Watch the 24-second walkthroughA little support. A little stretch.
A reason to keep reading.
Your next good read
The art of
noticing small things.
On her way home, Maya takes a different street. A little bookshop catches her eye. She feels , so she steps inside.
Learning something new takes . Sometimes, all you need is a small moment of understanding.
patience
IN SIMPLE ENGLISHMeaning
You can wait or keep trying without getting angry.
Learning a new word takes patience.
Same page. Same language. A little clearer.
Tap a highlighted word. Then try a different level.
These are prepared examples. No API key needed here.
English explained in EnglishA1–C2 reading levelsOn the page you’re readingFree & open source
SEE IT IN ACTION
A word. A sentence.
A little clearer.
Select unfamiliar English, click Explain, and keep reading.
A real walkthrough, in 24 seconds. No sound needed.
Read the walkthrough
First, the reader selects “impulse” and clicks the extension’s book icon. A card opens with an English meaning and an example at B2 level. Next, the reader selects a passage about the freedom to wander and clicks the same icon. After a loading indicator, the card explains the passage in English. The reader moves the card and scrolls through its meaning and example, without leaving the article.
THE IDEA IS SIMPLE
More understanding.
More English.
Comprehensible input is language you can follow, even when a few words are new. The point is to understand the message and keep going.
Bring that idea to articles, stories, and the English pages you already enjoy. When something gets in the way, a clear explanation helps you move on.
Meet yourself where you are.
Choose a comfortable level, from A1 to C2. Explanations aim to stay understandable while introducing a little new language.
Stay with what you’re reading.
Select a word, phrase, or short sentence. Click Explain. Read the meaning on the original page, then carry on.
Read things you care about. Notice something new.
A little help when you need it. English stays at the center.
YOUR NEXT GOOD READ
A small extension.
A new way to read.
The extension is free and open source. Bring your own AI API key; any model usage costs depend on your provider.
Chrome release coming soonThe Chrome Web Store release is not live yet. You can explore the reading demo above.
- 01
Add Read English to Chrome.
Once released, follow this page’s store link and choose “Add to Chrome” in the Chrome Web Store.
- 02
Find your comfortable level.
Try the offline A1–C2 reading samples. Choose a level, then connect your preferred AI provider with your own API key.
- 03
Read something you love.
Highlight unfamiliar English, click Explain, and read the meaning and example without leaving the page.
BEFORE YOUR FIRST READ
A few good
questions.
Everything you need to know
before you get started.
Can I install it from the Chrome Web Store?
Not yet. When the store release is live, the installation links on this page will take you directly to its Chrome Web Store listing.
What does “comprehensible input” mean?
It means language you understand well enough to follow the message, even when some words are new. Read English supports that experience by explaining unfamiliar text in English suited to your selected level.
Is it free? Why do I need an API key?
The extension is free and open source. Explanations are generated by the AI provider you connect. An API key gives the extension access to that service; availability, limits, and costs depend on the provider.
Can I try it before setting up an API key?
Yes. This page has prepared interactive examples, and the extension includes offline reading samples for A1–C2. Generating new explanations requires a configured AI provider.
Which AI providers can I use?
Gemini, Claude, OpenAI, DeepSeek, and Grok. You can also configure a custom OpenAI-compatible service, including a suitable local server.
Where do my key and selected text go?
Your API key is saved locally on your device. When you request an explanation, the selected text and explanation prompt go to the provider you configured. A custom service may use its own proxy. Choose a service whose privacy policy you’re comfortable with.
Is the reading level a formal CEFR test?
No. The reading samples are an informal way to choose a comfortable level, not a validated assessment. AI explanations can vary. Adjust the level whenever the language feels too easy or too difficult.
FREE. OPEN. MADE FOR READERS.
Good things grow
with a little support.
If Read English makes your reading a little easier, share your feedback or give the project a star. Voluntary sponsorship details will be added when available.