Hobby
/ˈhɔbi/neuter
The English word 'hobby' can be translated into German as Hobby. If unsure, use Hobby. Wiktionary also lists Steckenpferd.
Meaning: activity done for enjoyment in spare time (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Hobby | /ˈhɔbi/ | neuter |
| Steckenpferd | /ˈʃtɛkn̩ˌp͡feːɐ̯t/ | neuter |
The German word Hobby is a loanword from English, which means it is used in almost identical contexts to the English word. This makes it very easy for English speakers to recognize. You can also use Lieblingsbeschäftigung to express the concept of a hobby, which translates to 'favorite pastime'.
Which one should you use?
While Hobby refers to a leisure activity, the word Steckenpferd is used metaphorically to describe a subject or topic that someone is particularly passionate about or specializes in.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of the loanword Hobby in German is Hobbys.
Did you know?
- The word Steckenpferd literally translates to 'stick horse'. This refers to the toy horse on a pole that a child rides while pretending to be a knight.
- German speakers often use the term Freizeitgestaltung to describe how one 'structures' or 'arranges' their free time, rather than just naming a single activity.
- Unlike English where 'hobby' is a very broad term, a German speaker might use Leidenschaft to describe a hobby that has become a defining part of their identity.
Examples in context
- Hat sie ein Hobby?Does she have a hobby?This sentence is useful for asking if someone has a Hobby.Tatoeba #666547 by kolonjano, translation #312778 by CH
- Was ist Ihr Hobby?What's your hobby?This sentence is useful for asking what someone's Hobby is.Tatoeba #1308841 by Esperantostern, translation #594511 by CK
- Das ist mein Hobby.That's my hobby.This sentence is useful for stating that something is your Hobby.Tatoeba #3751292 by Zaghawa, translation #3658521 by rokito
- Meine Interessen sind Reisen, Fotografie und Wandern.My hobbies are traveling, photography, and hiking.
- Meine Freizeitbeschäftigung ist das Lesen von Büchern.My hobby is reading books.
- Mein Hobby ist das Sammeln von Briefmarken.My hobby is collecting stamps.
- 118 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their free time at a cafe.
- MaximilianLaura, hast du ein Hobby?Laura, do you have a hobby?
- LauraJa, mein Hobby ist Tanzen.Yes, my hobby is dancing.
- MaximilianDas klingt toll, Laura!That sounds great, Laura!
- LauraUnd was ist dein Hobby?And what is your hobby?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hobby” translations and entries Hobby, Steckenpferd, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Hobby, Steckenpferd, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
