Small Talk, Big Impact: Tips for Terrific Small Talk – Part 3
Welcome back to “Small Talk, Big Impact: Tips for Terrific Small Talk.” In this third installment, we explore how to discuss hobbies in English, a topic that sparks interest and fosters connections. Hobbies reveal more about our personalities, interests, and lifestyles, making this a perfect subject for moving beyond superficial small talk.
Why Discuss Hobbies?
Discussing hobbies does more than just fill conversational space; it provides insights into someone’s character and personal preferences, offering a wealth of topics for further conversation. Whether it’s sports, reading, gardening, or gaming, everyone has activities they love doing in their free time.
Key Vocabulary for Discussing Hobbies
- Hobby (noun) [ˈhɑː.bi] – An activity someone does for pleasure when they are not working.
- Example: “My main hobby is photography. I love capturing moments.”
- To be into (something) (phrase) [tuː biː ˈɪn.tuː] – To be very interested in something.
- Example: “I’m really into hiking. There’s nothing like a day in the mountains.”
- To take up (a hobby) (phrase) [tuː teɪk ʌp] – To begin a new hobby.
- Example: “I recently took up yoga to help with flexibility.”
- Crafting (noun) [ˈkræf.tɪŋ] – The activity of making decorative objects by hand.
- Example: “I spend my weekends crafting. Recently, I’ve been working on handmade candles.”
- Reading (noun) [ˈriː.dɪŋ] – The activity of looking at and understanding the words in books, magazines, etc.
- Example: “Reading has always been a sanctuary for me; I enjoy both fiction and non-fiction.”
- Gardening (noun) [ˈɡɑːr.dən.ɪŋ] – The activity of tending and cultivating a garden, especially as a pastime.
- Example: “Gardening is my way of connecting with nature. I grow herbs and vegetables.”
- Cooking (noun) [ˈkʊk.ɪŋ] – The practice or skill of preparing food by combining, mixing, and heating ingredients.
- Example: “Cooking is more than a hobby for me; it’s a passion. I love experimenting with new recipes.”
- Playing musical instruments (phrase) [ˈpleɪ.ɪŋ ˈmjuː.zɪ.kəl ˈɪn.strə.mənts] – The activity of making music with instruments.
- Example: “I’ve been playing the guitar for years. Music is a big part of my life.”
- Sports (noun) [spɔːrts] – Physical activities that people do for exercise and enjoyment.
- Example: “I’m very active and love sports; basketball and swimming are my favorites.”
- Travelling (noun) [ˈtræv.əl.ɪŋ] – The activity of going from one place to another, typically over a distance of some length.
- Example: “Traveling opens your eyes to new cultures. I try to visit a new country every year.”
- Rock climbing (noun) [rɑk ˈklaɪ.mɪŋ] – The sport or activity of climbing rock faces, especially with the aid of ropes and special equipment.
- Example: “I enjoy rock climbing for a bit of adrenaline.”
- Painting (noun) [ˈpeɪn.tɪŋ] – The process or art of using paint, in a picture, as a protective coating, or as decoration.
- Example: “I’m really into painting, especially watercolours.”
Engaging Questions to Ask About Hobbies
- “What do you like to do in your spare time?”
- “Are there any hobbies you’re particularly passionate about?”
- “How did you get into [hobby]?”
Hobby Conversation
Alice: I’ve been looking for a new hobby lately. What do you like to do in your free time, John?
John: I’m really into painting, especially watercolours. It’s relaxing. And you?
Alice: I’m quite diverse in my interests. I enjoy rock climbing for a bit of adrenaline, and I’ve also taken up photography.
John: Photography sounds fascinating! It must be great capturing those moments, especially on your climbs.
Alice: Absolutely, it’s the best of both worlds. How about you? Ever tried combining your hobbies, like painting landscapes from places you’ve visited?
John: That’s a brilliant idea, Alice. I haven’t done much traveling lately, but painting landscapes from my travels could be an interesting project.
Alice: And maybe I could offer some of my photos as inspiration?
John: I’d love that. It sounds like a perfect collaboration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming Interest: Not everyone will share your hobbies, so gauge interest before delving too deep.
- Dominating the Conversation: Remember, the goal is to find common ground, not to monopolize the talk with your interests.
Discussing hobbies in English is a fantastic way to learn more about others while also sharing parts of yourself. It enriches conversations, builds connections, and can even lead to new friendships and experiences. So, the next time you find yourself in a social situation, don’t shy away from sharing your passions and inquiring about others’. Who knows where these conversations might lead?
Before you wander off do more of your favourite hobby, learning English, try the quiz below! Also, tell us a hobby that you are into in the comments below.
Happy hobbying.
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