mes passe-temps sont
The English phrase "my hobbies are" is translated into French as mes passe-temps sont.
This phrase is used to introduce a list of activities that a person enjoys doing in their free time. In natural conversation, French speakers often prefer to say J'aime… (I like…) followed by an activity rather than using the formal mes passe-temps sont.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, mes passe-temps sont translates to "my pastimes are".
Which one should you use?
While mes passe-temps sont is a standard way to introduce hobbies, you can also use mes loisirs sont to refer to leisure activities. If you are particularly enthusiastic about your hobbies, you might use the phrase mes passions sont to say "my passions are".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more informal and enthusiastic tone, you can use mes passions sont.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Canada, people may use mes loisirs to refer to their hobbies.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word passe-temps can be replaced with loisirs to refer to leisure activities or hobbies.
Did you know?
- In professional contexts, such as a CV, French speakers use centres d'intérêt rather than passe-temps to sound more intellectual.
- The word loisirs comes from the Old French word loisir, which originally meant 'the freedom to act' or 'liberty'.
- The word temps in passe-temps is an ancient word that refers to both 'time' as a duration and 'weather'.
Examples in context
- Mes passe-temps sont la lecture et la photographie.My hobbies are reading and photography.
- Mes passe-temps sont la lecture et le dessin.My hobbies are reading and drawing.
- Mes passe-temps sont la natation et le yoga.My hobbies are swimming and yoga.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are getting to know each other at a party.
- HugoQu'est-ce que tu aimes faire, Manon ?What do you like to do, Manon?
- ManonMes passe-temps sont le cinéma et le yoga.My hobbies are cinema and yoga.
- HugoC'est super ! Moi, j'adore le tennis.That's great! Me, I love tennis.
- ManonC'est génial, Hugo !That's awesome, Hugo!
