Refine: a locally run English grammar checking tool

Refine is an English grammar checker designed for macOS users (added to Windows/Linux waitlist). It runs locally without an Internet connection, protecting user privacy. All text processing is done on the user's Mac, no uploading to the cloud, no data tracking, and Refine uses advanced AI models to provide fast, accurate grammar suggestions. It doesn't require a subscription - just a one-time purchase for perpetual use. It integrates seamlessly with a wide range of apps on macOS and is simple to use for writers, students, and professionals.Refine supports offline work and provides grammar checking services anytime, anywhere. Users can first download the free trial version to experience its features.

Function List

• local processing: All syntax checking is done on the user's device without the need for an Internet connection, protecting data privacy.
• Instant Grammar Advice: Quickly detects grammar, spelling and style problems in text and provides suggestions for improvement.
• seamless integration: Compatible with applications such as text editors, mail clients, and more on macOS, with no additional setup required.
• Available offline: No internet connection required, suitable for traveling or no internet environment.
• One-time purchase: No subscription fees and permanent access to major version updates after purchase.
• Free Trial: A trial version is available so that users can experience the features before deciding to buy.

Using Help

Installation process

1. Visit the official website: Open your browser and go to the official Refine website.
2. Download Trial Version: Click the "Download Free Trial" button on the homepage to download the installation package (.dmg file) for macOS.
3. Installing the software: Double-click on the downloaded .dmg file and follow the prompts to drag Refine into the Applications folder.
4. triggering program: Find Refine in the Applications folder and click on Open. The first time you launch it, you may need to authorize access to system privileges (e.g. text input).
5. activate a trial version: After installation, Refine automatically enters a trial mode, which allows you to use the full functionality without registration. The trial version is fully functional, but has a time limit.
6. Buy Full Version(Optional): Once you are satisfied with the trial, click the "Purchase" button in the app to go to the official purchase page. After the payment is completed, enter the license key to activate the full version.

Functional operation flow

1. Native syntax checking

Refine's core function is to check English text for grammar, spelling and style issues. Open any macOS app that supports text input, such as Pages, Notes, or Microsoft Word. Start typing something in English, and Refine automatically detects and highlights problem areas. For example, if you type "You was late," Refine flags "was" and suggests "were" instead.

• procedure::
  • Make sure Refine is running in the background (it starts by default after installation).
  • Enter English content in any text editor.
  • When Refine detects a problem, a red underline appears below the text.
  • Click underline to see suggested changes (e.g., grammar corrections, vocabulary substitutions).
  • Select Accept Suggestion and the text will be updated automatically.

2. Offline use

Refine's offline functionality is suitable for network-less environments. Whether on an airplane, in a coffee shop or in a remote area, users will be able to use it.

• procedure::
  • Ensure that Refine is installed and that no additional configuration is required.
  • Open a text editor, type something, and Refine will provide syntax suggestions as usual.
  • When there is no network, Refine relies on local AI models, and the processing speed is the same as when it is online.

3. Application integration

Refine automatically integrates with the text input environment on macOS, eliminating the need for manual setup. Supported applications include Pages, Notes, TextEdit, Microsoft Word, Google Docs (desktop version), and more.

• procedure::
  • Open a supported application (such as Pages).
  • Enter English content and Refine will check it in real time in the background.
  • If no syntax suggestions are detected, check if Refine is running in the background (see the Refine icon in the menu bar).
  • To close Refine, click on the menu bar icon and select "Pause" or "Exit".

4. Style and tone adjustments

Refine not only corrects grammar, it also optimizes sentence style and tone. For example, it can change colloquial sentences into more formal expressions.

• procedure::
  • After entering text, Refine flags expressions that may be lengthy or unprofessional.
  • Click on Suggestions to see alternative options (e.g. change "pretty good" to "excellent").
  • Select appropriate advice based on the writing objective (e.g., a formal document or casual email).

5. Trial and purchase

Users can download the trial version first to experience all the functions. The trial version has no feature limitations, but has a usage period (the exact number of days is based on the official website). After purchasing, users get permanent usage rights and support for major version updates.

• procedure::
  • In the trial version, click the "Purchase" button to be redirected to the official payment page.
  • Select a payment method (e.g. credit card or PayPal) to complete your purchase.
  • Once you have received your license key, open Refine and go to Settings > Enter License.
  • Enter the key to activate the full version.

caveat

• system requirementsRefine requires macOS 10.15 or later and recommends at least 4GB of RAM for smooth operation.
• update: Refine will prompt for an update, click "Check for Update" to download the latest version.
• be in favor of: In case of problems, you can contact customer service through the official website at support@refine.sh.

application scenario

1. academic writing
   When students and researchers write essays or reports, Refine checks for grammatical errors and ensures professional language. It is especially suitable for non-native English speakers to help them improve the quality of their academic writing.
2. Workplace Documents
   When writing emails, reports or proposals, Refine optimizes sentence structure for clarity and professionalism. It can also be used in network-less environments (e.g. on business trips), making it suitable for mobile work.
3. Creative Writing
   Novelists or bloggers can use Refine to check the grammar of their text and adjust the tone to make the content more relevant to their target audience. It supports offline writing, making it suitable for recording inspiration at any time.
4. Daily Notes
   When users take notes in English in Notes or TextEdit, Refine corrects spelling and grammatical errors in real time to improve text quality.

QA

1. Does Refine require an internet connection?
   No. Refine runs locally and all processing is done on the user's Mac without an Internet connection, making it ideal for offline use.
2. What languages does Refine support?
   Currently only English grammar checking is supported, other language support may be updated in the future.
3. What is the difference between the trial version and the full version?
   The trial version is fully functional but has an expiration date. The full version requires a one-time purchase for permanent use and update support.
4. How do I contact customer service?
   Send an email through the official website at support@refine.sh and customer service will respond to frequently asked questions or technical support.
5. Does Refine collect user data?
   No. Refine emphasizes privacy and all data processing is done locally, not uploaded to the cloud.