have a hobby

Meaning

This expression refers to regularly engaging in an activity for pleasure or relaxation during one's leisure time. It is a fundamental phrase used when getting to know someone or talking about work-life balance.

Examples

• It is important to have a hobby to help you unwind after a stressful workday.

  It is important to have a hobby to help you unwind after a stressful workday.

• I don't really have a hobby right now because I'm so busy with my studies.

  I don't really have a hobby right now because I'm so busy with my studies.

• My grandfather used to have a hobby of collecting rare old stamps.

  My grandfather used to have a hobby of collecting rare old stamps.

• Do you have a hobby, or do you just prefer to relax and watch TV?

  Do you have a hobby, or do you just prefer to relax and watch TV?

• She decided to have a hobby like pottery to express her creativity.

  She decided to have a hobby like pottery to express her creativity.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I practice a hobby every weekend.

  ✓ I have a hobby that I enjoy every weekend.

  English speakers do not 'practice' a hobby; they 'have' a hobby or 'do' an activity.

• ✗ My favorite hobby is to play games.

  ✓ My favorite hobby is playing games.

  When describing a hobby, we typically use the gerund (-ing form) rather than the infinitive to sound natural.

Related Expressions

Practice

• It's healthy to ___ that keeps your mind off work.

  💡 Keep a regular leisure activity

  Show answer

  have a hobby

• I would love to ___ like gardening if I had a bigger yard.

  💡 Engage in a pastime

  Show answer

  have a hobby