What are your hobbies? vs What is your pastime?

Both phrases are correct and commonly used to inquire about someone's interests or activities outside of work or school. 'What are your hobbies?' is a more common and straightforward way to ask about activities a person enjoys doing in their free time. On the other hand, 'What is your pastime?' is a more formal and less commonly used way to ask the same question.

Last updated: March 26, 2024

What are your hobbies?

This phrase is correct and commonly used to inquire about someone's interests or activities outside of work or school.

This phrase is a common and straightforward way to ask about activities a person enjoys doing in their free time.

Examples:

What are your hobbies? I enjoy painting and playing the guitar.
She asked me, 'What are your hobbies?'
I always struggle to answer the question, 'What are your hobbies?'
When someone asks, 'What are your hobbies?' it's a chance to share your interests.
He was curious and asked, 'What are your hobbies?'

Alternatives:

What do you like to do in your free time?
What activities do you enjoy outside of work?
What are your interests outside of your job?
What do you do for fun?
What are your favorite pastimes?

What is your pastime?

This phrase is correct but less commonly used compared to 'What are your hobbies?' It is a more formal way to ask about someone's interests or activities outside of work or school.

This phrase is a more formal and less commonly used way to ask about activities a person enjoys doing in their free time.

Examples:

What is your pastime? Do you enjoy reading or gardening?
She inquired, 'What is your pastime?'
I find it interesting when people ask, 'What is your pastime?'
When you want to sound more formal, you can ask, 'What is your pastime?'
He prefers to ask, 'What is your pastime?' instead of 'What are your hobbies?'

Alternatives:

What do you do for leisure?
What leisure activities do you enjoy?
What do you like to do in your spare time?
What are your favorite hobbies?
What activities do you pursue outside of work?

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What are your hobbies? vs What is your pastime?