Most Common Hobbies Vocabulary IELTS

Aspiring to excel in one of the most sought-after language proficiency tests? Candidates appearing for the IELTS exam to migrate overseas must demonstrate strong skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. During the IELTS Speaking Test, it is quite common to be asked questions about personal hobbies and interests.

To help candidates respond confidently and naturally, this blog presents a comprehensive list of more than 20 most common hobbies vocabulary for IELTS. These words have frequently appeared in the test over the years and will help you enhance your speaking performance and aim for a higher band score.

Why Hobbies Vocabulary Matters in the IELTS Exam

As discussed above, hobbies often serve as a key topic in the IELTS Speaking Test. To perform well, candidates must not only mention their hobbies but also describe them fluently and naturally. This is where a strong vocabulary plays an essential role. Using precise and varied words allows test-takers to express their thoughts clearly and avoid repetition. Examiners assess how effectively candidates use topic-related vocabulary to communicate ideas about their interests, routines, and preferences. A good command of hobbies-related vocabulary helps you sound confident, organised, and expressive, three qualities that contribute significantly to achieving a higher band score in the Speaking section.

Types of Hobbies in IELTS

When preparing for the IELTS Speaking Test, it helps to categorise hobbies into different types. This allows candidates to speak with clarity, structure their answers better, and use a wider range of topic-related vocabulary. Below are the most common types of hobbies that often appear in IELTS discussions.

1. Indoor Hobbies

As discussed earlier, hobbies often help candidates express ideas naturally during the IELTS Speaking Test. Indoor hobbies, in particular, are excellent to talk about because they reflect creativity, discipline, and personal interests that can make answers sound fluent and engaging. These activities are performed within a comfortable indoor setting and help candidates use descriptive and topic-related vocabulary in a structured way.

Below is a list of 50 indoor hobbies that students can refer to when preparing for IELTS Speaking. Each entry explains how it can be used effectively in exam responses.

List of Indoor Hobbies	Description of Indoor Hobbies
Reading Books	Reading builds imagination, focus, and vocabulary. In IELTS, students can mention reading as a way to gain knowledge or unwind. It offers opportunities to use expressions about genres, authors, and emotions, helping candidates sound thoughtful and linguistically varied during their answers.
Cooking	Cooking demonstrates creativity and patience. IELTS candidates can describe experimenting with cuisines, following recipes, or sharing meals with family. It allows them to use sensory and descriptive vocabulary, which adds richness and fluency to their responses.
Baking	Baking reflects precision, patience, and enjoyment. When students mention baking in IELTS, they can describe steps, ingredients, and results. It provides scope to use process-related and emotional vocabulary, improving lexical range and coherence.
Watching Movies	Watching movies helps students understand cultures and languages. During IELTS, this topic enables discussion about favourite genres or learning experiences through films. It encourages the use of adjectives related to feelings and storytelling.
Playing Board Games	Board games promote logical thinking and social bonding. IELTS candidates can talk about strategy, teamwork, or relaxation, which adds vocabulary related to leisure, competition, and friendship.
Practising Yoga	Yoga is linked with health and mindfulness. In IELTS, students can describe it as a stress-relieving routine that improves concentration. It allows natural use of wellness-related vocabulary.
Playing a Musical Instrument	Learning instruments like guitar or piano shows dedication and creativity. IELTS candidates can discuss practice habits and emotional satisfaction, demonstrating control over artistic vocabulary.
Painting	Painting reveals creativity and imagination. Students can mention painting landscapes or portraits in IELTS to describe colours, feelings, and techniques, improving descriptive fluency.
Sketching	Sketching enhances observation skills and patience. Candidates can use it to describe personal relaxation methods or artistic preferences, showing range in topic-specific vocabulary.
Writing	Writing as a hobby improves self-expression and grammar. IELTS students can mention journaling or creative writing, giving them a chance to showcase linguistic precision and expressive language.
Photography	Photography nurtures attention to detail. In IELTS, candidates can describe capturing moments or exploring perspectives, using technical and emotional vocabulary fluently.
Knitting	Knitting highlights patience and creativity. Discussing this hobby allows IELTS test-takers to use vocabulary about materials, relaxation, and craftsmanship.
Sewing	Sewing reflects skill and creativity. IELTS candidates can talk about making clothes or repairing garments, incorporating vocabulary related to fashion and design.
Calligraphy	Calligraphy combines art and discipline. Discussing this hobby allows use of vocabulary related to handwriting, precision, and creativity in IELTS answers.
Gardening Indoors	Indoor gardening demonstrates care and patience. IELTS candidates can describe growing herbs or flowers, using nature and lifestyle vocabulary effectively.
Meditation	Meditation supports mental clarity. In IELTS, it can be discussed as a routine to manage stress or focus better, allowing use of emotional and wellness-related words.
Solving Puzzles	Puzzles develop concentration and logic. Candidates can explain how they solve crosswords or sudoku to relax, improving vocabulary on problem-solving and patience.
Reading Magazines	Reading magazines helps stay informed about trends. IELTS students can mention it to show interest in culture, fashion, or technology, using topical vocabulary.
Listening to Music	Listening to music offers relaxation and motivation. In IELTS, candidates can discuss favourite artists or how music improves mood, enriching responses with emotional vocabulary.
Watching Documentaries	Watching documentaries shows curiosity and awareness. IELTS candidates can describe learning about history or nature, demonstrating critical and topic-based language.
Learning Languages	Learning new languages displays ambition. IELTS students can use this to show interest in communication and culture, adding vocabulary about goals and achievement.
Playing Chess	Chess represents strategic thinking and patience. In IELTS, it helps discuss logic, focus, and competition using intellectual and descriptive vocabulary.
Collecting Stamps	Stamp collecting reflects curiosity and attention to detail. IELTS candidates can use this to express appreciation for history or geography-related topics.
Scrapbooking	Scrapbooking combines art and memory. In IELTS, it allows discussion about creativity and family memories, expanding expressive vocabulary.
Watching TV Shows	Watching TV shows provides entertainment and learning. Students can discuss favourite series, enhancing vocabulary related to media and storytelling.
Origami	Origami highlights patience and skill. IELTS candidates can mention making paper art, using vocabulary about shapes, precision, and creativity.
Reading Newspapers	Reading newspapers helps stay updated. Candidates can use this hobby to discuss awareness of current events, improving lexical resource in IELTS Speaking.
Candle Making	Candle making is a relaxing and artistic activity. IELTS candidates can describe the process or scents, using sensory and creative vocabulary.
Journaling	Journaling supports reflection and organisation. IELTS students can describe it as a way to express thoughts clearly, showcasing emotional and expressive language.
Doing Crafts	Crafting enhances creativity and hand coordination. Discussing this hobby in IELTS allows vocabulary about design, materials, and creativity.
Playing Indoor Sports	Indoor sports like table tennis show energy and teamwork. IELTS candidates can talk about fitness, competition, and hobbies, enriching fluency.
Reading Poetry	Reading poetry improves imagination and expression. IELTS students can discuss favourite poets or themes, showcasing strong descriptive vocabulary.
Solving Riddles	Solving riddles builds logic and creativity. In IELTS, it provides an example of mental challenge and fun, enhancing lexical variety.
Playing Video Games	Video games can improve focus and strategy. IELTS candidates can discuss balance between fun and productivity, using technology-related vocabulary.
Learning Calligraphy	Learning calligraphy improves artistic skills and patience. IELTS students can describe how it helps in focus and creativity, expanding expressive vocabulary.
Practising Meditation	Meditation brings calmness and focus. IELTS candidates can discuss it as a daily habit that supports study and health, enriching fluency with wellness-related words.
Reading Comics	Reading comics develops imagination and humour. IELTS students can describe enjoyment through stories and visuals, using expressive language.
Making Jewelry	Jewellery making showcases creativity and design sense. In IELTS, it allows discussion on craftsmanship, patience, and beauty.
Solving Crossword Puzzles	Crosswords expand vocabulary and focus. IELTS candidates can discuss this activity as part of their language learning journey.
Cooking New Dishes	Experimenting with recipes demonstrates curiosity. IELTS students can use this to talk about learning from cultures, improving descriptive and cultural vocabulary.
Listening to Podcasts	Podcasts improve listening and comprehension. In IELTS, this hobby shows curiosity and dedication to learning, using education-related language.
Learning Coding	Coding builds problem-solving skills. IELTS candidates can describe it as a way to develop logic and creativity, expanding technical vocabulary.
Reading Biographies	Biographies inspire learning. Students can discuss favourite figures and life lessons in IELTS, enhancing storytelling and reflective language.
Making Origami Art	Origami combines focus and creativity. IELTS candidates can describe it to express mindfulness and attention to detail.
Practising Handwriting	Handwriting practice reflects patience. IELTS students can discuss improving clarity and presentation, showing discipline-related vocabulary.
Watching Educational Videos	Educational videos improve knowledge and pronunciation. IELTS candidates can describe it as a learning tool, linking it to language improvement.
Listening to Audiobooks	Audiobooks help improve comprehension. IELTS students can discuss it as a learning habit that enhances fluency and vocabulary naturally.
Designing Graphics	Graphic design demonstrates creativity and technical skill. In IELTS, it can be discussed as an artistic or professional hobby.
Collecting Coins	Coin collecting displays cultural curiosity. IELTS candidates can use it to describe history, travel, and interest in world heritage.

2. Outdoor Hobbies

Following the discussion on indoor activities, outdoor hobbies offer another engaging way for IELTS candidates to express their interests with confidence. These activities usually involve nature, adventure, or physical movement and help test-takers demonstrate vocabulary related to the environment, teamwork, and exploration. Talking about outdoor hobbies in the IELTS Speaking Test can make responses sound lively, authentic, and well-structured.

Below is a list of 50 outdoor hobbies with their meaning and IELTS usage relevance.

Outdoor Hobbies for IELTS	Description of Outdoor Hobbies
Playing Football	Football builds teamwork and physical fitness. IELTS candidates can discuss it to highlight passion for sports and health awareness, using vocabulary about competition, discipline, and strategy.
Playing Cricket	Cricket reflects coordination and patience. In IELTS, students can mention playing it for relaxation or teamwork, incorporating sports-related expressions naturally.
Running	Running promotes health and stress relief. IELTS candidates can use it to describe fitness routines, morning habits, or motivation, enriching answers with health-related vocabulary.
Jogging	Jogging helps maintain energy and focus. Discussing it in IELTS shows awareness of wellness and self-discipline, adding variety to personal lifestyle topics.
Cycling	Cycling improves fitness and is eco-friendly. IELTS candidates can use it to discuss outdoor activities, environmental awareness, or transportation habits.
Hiking	Hiking involves exploring nature and adventure. In IELTS, students can describe scenic experiences, travel stories, or relaxation methods, using vivid and descriptive language.
Swimming	Swimming supports fitness and relaxation. IELTS candidates can talk about it as a summer hobby or stress reliever, using movement and health-related vocabulary.
Playing Tennis	Tennis demonstrates coordination and focus. In IELTS, it allows discussion about personal goals, sportsmanship, and practice routines.
Playing Badminton	Badminton encourages agility and teamwork. Students can discuss it as a family or community sport, showing vocabulary related to energy and social life.
Skipping Rope	Skipping enhances stamina and rhythm. In IELTS, it helps describe daily exercise or morning routines with clarity and detail.
Playing Basketball	Basketball builds teamwork and strategy. Candidates can use it to talk about sportsmanship, fitness, or learning discipline in IELTS Speaking.
Travelling	Travelling broadens perspective and cultural awareness. IELTS students can describe destinations, memories, or travel goals, improving fluency with rich adjectives and expressions.
Camping	Camping offers adventure and connection with nature. In IELTS, it helps students discuss teamwork, exploration, and environmental care.
Fishing	Fishing represents patience and calmness. IELTS candidates can describe peaceful outdoor experiences, demonstrating vocabulary about nature and relaxation.
Gardening	Gardening reflects care and environmental interest. In IELTS, it can be discussed as a relaxing or productive hobby, enhancing nature-related vocabulary.
Bird Watching	Bird watching shows curiosity and observation. IELTS candidates can talk about species, locations, or experiences, improving descriptive expression.
Trekking	Trekking builds endurance and courage. Discussing this hobby in IELTS helps students use adventure-related vocabulary confidently.
Photography Outdoors	Outdoor photography highlights creativity and exploration. IELTS students can discuss capturing landscapes or city life, improving descriptive fluency.
Playing Golf	Golf requires patience and focus. IELTS candidates can talk about learning discipline or networking through sports.
Running Marathons	Marathon running shows dedication and health awareness. IELTS students can use it to express commitment and determination.
Playing Volleyball	Volleyball encourages teamwork and energy. In IELTS, it provides a chance to use vocabulary about sports and group coordination.
Exploring New Places	Exploring places reflects curiosity and adaptability. IELTS candidates can describe destinations or local culture using travel-related expressions.
Rock Climbing	Rock climbing represents courage and discipline. IELTS students can describe it as an adventurous activity, using action-oriented vocabulary.
Mountain Biking	Mountain biking combines thrill and fitness. Candidates can discuss challenges or scenic trails in IELTS Speaking answers.
Playing Baseball	Baseball promotes focus and coordination. IELTS candidates can discuss team effort and practice routines using sports vocabulary.
Walking Pets	Walking pets shows responsibility and affection. IELTS students can describe it as part of their daily routine, using lifestyle vocabulary.
Playing Hockey	Hockey builds strength and teamwork. In IELTS, it can be mentioned to discuss school or community sports activities.
Surfing	Surfing offers adventure and balance. IELTS candidates can use it to describe holidays or relaxation, using vivid and sensory expressions.
Horse Riding	Horse riding shows discipline and courage. IELTS students can discuss training, care, and enjoyment, enriching responses with unique vocabulary.
Paragliding	Paragliding symbolizes adventure and freedom. IELTS candidates can talk about travel experiences or overcoming fear, using expressive vocabulary.
Skiing	Skiing combines excitement and balance. IELTS candidates can describe travel, snow experiences, or winter activities using rich vocabulary.
Playing Baseball	Baseball improves coordination and focus. IELTS students can discuss teamwork and determination, adding interest to their responses.
Playing Frisbee	Frisbee is fun and social. IELTS candidates can describe outdoor gatherings or exercise, using active and informal expressions.
Visiting Parks	Visiting parks shows appreciation for nature. IELTS students can use this hobby to describe relaxation, weekends, or family time.
Travelling Solo	Solo travel reflects independence and curiosity. IELTS candidates can use it to talk about personal growth and cultural learning.
Participating in Marathons	Marathons show fitness and persistence. IELTS students can describe preparation, motivation, and achievement vocabulary.
Exploring Historical Sites	Visiting heritage places demonstrates curiosity about culture and history. IELTS candidates can describe memorable trips and learning experiences.
Skateboarding	Skateboarding highlights creativity and energy. IELTS students can describe it as a street hobby that keeps them active.
Playing Outdoor Games	Outdoor games build teamwork and excitement. IELTS candidates can discuss community sports, showcasing leisure vocabulary.
Kayaking	Kayaking offers thrill and nature connection. IELTS students can discuss adventure and relaxation, using descriptive water-related vocabulary.
Playing Baseball	Baseball promotes coordination and focus. IELTS candidates can highlight teamwork, communication, and sports spirit.
Exploring Local Markets	Visiting markets displays interest in culture. IELTS students can describe sights, sounds, and foods using sensory language.
Running in the Park	Running in the park shows discipline and fitness awareness. IELTS candidates can describe it as part of their morning routine.
Going on Picnics	Picnics promote relaxation and bonding. IELTS students can discuss family outings or peaceful weekends using vivid vocabulary.
Visiting the Beach	The beach represents relaxation and freedom. IELTS candidates can describe sounds, scenery, or activities using sensory expressions.
Playing Outdoor Music	Performing music outdoors shows confidence and creativity. IELTS students can discuss festivals or gatherings.
Participating in Community Clean-Ups	Joining clean-up drives shows social responsibility. IELTS candidates can discuss environmental awareness and teamwork.
Stargazing	Stargazing reflects curiosity and peace. IELTS candidates can describe night sky experiences, using poetic and descriptive vocabulary.
Exploring Countryside	Exploring rural areas shows appreciation for nature. IELTS students can describe scenery, people, or simplicity in IELTS answers.

Also Read: Recent IELTS Speaking Solved Questions

3. Creative Hobbies

After exploring indoor and outdoor interests, creative hobbies offer candidates an excellent way to express originality, imagination, and personal growth in the IELTS Speaking Test. These activities highlight individuality and innovation, helping students showcase descriptive language, emotional vocabulary, and structured ideas. Discussing creative hobbies allows test-takers to sound fluent, confident, and expressive while demonstrating a wide lexical range.

Below is a list of 50 creative hobbies with brief descriptions and their IELTS relevance.

List of Creative Hobbies	Description of Creative Hobbies
Painting	Painting reflects imagination and artistic skill. IELTS candidates can describe favourite styles, colours, or inspirations, using rich descriptive language.
Drawing	Drawing enhances observation and focus. Students can discuss sketching as a relaxing activity that improves concentration, adding artistic vocabulary.
Writing Stories	Story writing promotes creativity and clarity. IELTS candidates can discuss how it helps express ideas and emotions effectively.
Creative Writing	Creative writing improves vocabulary and imagination. Students can mention writing poems or short stories, showing expressive control.
Singing	Singing reveals emotion and confidence. IELTS candidates can describe learning songs or performing, using music-related vocabulary.
Dancing	Dancing shows energy and rhythm. In IELTS, students can discuss cultural or personal dance forms to highlight creativity and fitness.
Playing an Instrument	Playing instruments encourages discipline and emotion. IELTS candidates can talk about music as a way to express feelings.
Designing Clothes	Fashion design combines creativity and skill. IELTS students can use this topic to display vocabulary about style, trends, and originality.
Photography	Photography nurtures artistic vision. IELTS candidates can describe capturing moods or landscapes, improving descriptive fluency.
Graphic Designing	Graphic designing enhances digital creativity. IELTS students can discuss how design allows storytelling through visuals.
Pottery	Pottery involves shaping clay into art. IELTS candidates can describe the process, texture, and satisfaction of creating something by hand.
Sculpture Making	Sculpture making highlights creativity and precision. Discussing it in IELTS helps demonstrate artistic vocabulary.
Jewellery Making	Making jewellery reflects patience and detail. IELTS candidates can describe designs, materials, or inspiration, using fashion and craft language.
Origami	Origami combines art and concentration. IELTS candidates can discuss paper folding as a creative way to relax and express ideas.
Knitting	Knitting reflects dedication and artistic touch. In IELTS, students can describe creating garments or gifts, enriching responses with process words.
Embroidery	Embroidery showcases detail and patience. IELTS candidates can describe creating patterns or designs, using decorative vocabulary.
Calligraphy	Calligraphy displays beauty in handwriting. IELTS students can discuss how it helps improve focus and artistic control.
Interior Designing	Interior design reflects imagination and organisation. IELTS candidates can describe decorating spaces, using descriptive and spatial vocabulary.
Crafting	Crafting includes creating decorative objects. IELTS students can mention making handmade gifts or art, using creative expressions.
Storytelling	Storytelling strengthens imagination and fluency. IELTS candidates can describe how narrating stories helps improve communication skills.
Making Scrapbooks	Scrapbooking combines creativity and memory. IELTS students can discuss designing photo pages, showing vocabulary related to art and emotion.
Candle Making	Candle making reflects creativity and relaxation. IELTS candidates can describe scents, colours, and process, using sensory vocabulary.
Soap Making	Soap making is an artistic and practical craft. IELTS students can talk about creating unique fragrances and shapes.
Designing Posters	Poster designing shows artistic flair and awareness. IELTS candidates can describe themes or messages behind their creations.
Composing Music	Composing music allows emotional expression. IELTS students can describe creating melodies, enhancing fluency through artistic vocabulary.
Making Greeting Cards	Creating greeting cards combines art and emotion. IELTS candidates can discuss how they design cards for special occasions.
Digital Art	Digital art highlights modern creativity. IELTS students can describe designing on software, using technology-related language.
Animation	Animation merges storytelling and art. IELTS candidates can talk about learning software and creating characters, using creative vocabulary.
Making Home Décor Items	Home décor design shows imagination and aesthetics. IELTS students can describe crafting items to beautify spaces.
Writing Poetry	Poetry writing refines emotions and vocabulary. IELTS candidates can discuss writing to express feelings or observations creatively.
Blogging	Blogging enhances writing and digital skills. IELTS students can describe writing about travel, fashion, or lifestyle, showing expressive ability.
Video Editing	Video editing combines creativity and technology. IELTS candidates can describe making content or short films, using media-related vocabulary.
Creating Short Films	Making short films allows storytelling and direction. IELTS students can describe scriptwriting or filming, improving expressive fluency.
Makeup Artistry	Makeup artistry reflects precision and creativity. IELTS candidates can talk about creating looks for occasions, using beauty-related language.
Designing Websites	Website design combines art and technology. IELTS students can describe creating layouts, using design vocabulary.
Songwriting	Writing songs expresses emotion and rhythm. IELTS candidates can describe composing lyrics and melodies, improving fluency.
Creating Collages	Collage making shows creativity and expression. IELTS students can describe combining images or materials, using artistic words.
Designing Logos	Logo design promotes visual creativity. IELTS candidates can discuss creating brand images and using digital tools.
Making Origami Art	Origami involves precision and imagination. IELTS students can discuss how it helps relieve stress and encourage creativity.
Learning Hand Lettering	Hand lettering is artistic writing. IELTS candidates can describe designing fonts and quotes, using design vocabulary.
Painting Murals	Mural painting shows creativity on large scales. IELTS students can describe colours, styles, and messages behind their work.
Designing Posters	Poster design combines art and communication. IELTS candidates can discuss how visual design conveys messages.
Flower Arranging	Flower arranging blends creativity and aesthetics. IELTS students can describe making floral patterns for decoration or relaxation.
Making Clay Models	Clay modelling is a creative, hands-on art. IELTS candidates can describe shaping figures, adding vocabulary about texture and detail.
Creating DIY Crafts	DIY crafts encourage innovation and recycling. IELTS students can talk about making decorations or gifts at home.
Designing Jewellery	Jewellery designing merges art and precision. IELTS candidates can describe inspiration, design stages, and satisfaction of creation.
Building Miniatures	Making miniatures involves focus and patience. IELTS students can describe crafting small models using creative vocabulary.
Fashion Sketching	Fashion sketching highlights artistic style and innovation. IELTS candidates can describe designing clothes or accessories.
Writing Scripts	Scriptwriting develops storytelling and creativity. IELTS students can describe writing plays or dialogues, showing fluency and narrative skill.

4. Social Hobbies

After discussing creative activities that reflect individuality, social hobbies bring focus to communication, interaction, and relationship-building, important qualities that IELTS examiners value during the Speaking Test. These hobbies allow candidates to express how they engage with others, share experiences, and participate in community life. Discussing such hobbies helps demonstrate fluency, coherence, and the use of natural, conversational vocabulary related to people and social experiences.

Below is a list of 50 social hobbies with their description and IELTS usage relevance.

List of Social Hobbies	Description of Social Hobbies
Volunteering	Volunteering reflects kindness and responsibility. IELTS candidates can describe community service or charity work, using vocabulary about teamwork and social values.
Travelling with Friends	Travelling with friends promotes bonding and adventure. IELTS students can describe shared memories, teamwork, or cultural learning experiences.
Attending Cultural Events	Cultural events show curiosity and appreciation for diversity. IELTS candidates can discuss concerts, fairs, or festivals to use descriptive language.
Going to the Cinema	Visiting the cinema is a common social activity. IELTS students can describe favourite films, shared experiences, or emotions using everyday expressions.
Attending Workshops	Workshops enhance skills and communication. IELTS candidates can discuss attending writing or art workshops, showcasing interest in learning and collaboration.
Joining Book Clubs	Book clubs promote reading and discussion. IELTS students can talk about sharing opinions and learning perspectives, improving expressive vocabulary.
Participating in Group Discussions	Group discussions develop confidence and fluency. IELTS candidates can describe participating in debates or school activities.
Playing Team Sports	Team sports encourage cooperation and discipline. IELTS students can use this hobby to demonstrate teamwork and social interaction.
Dining Out	Dining out brings people together. IELTS candidates can describe trying cuisines and spending time with friends, using sensory vocabulary.
Organising Events	Event organisation shows leadership and teamwork. IELTS students can discuss school or social gatherings, using planning-related expressions.
Joining Social Clubs	Social clubs offer friendship and engagement. IELTS candidates can describe joining student or language clubs, improving conversational fluency.
Networking	Networking builds connections and confidence. IELTS students can describe meeting professionals or peers, using communication-related vocabulary.
Attending Family Gatherings	Family gatherings represent togetherness. IELTS candidates can describe traditions, food, or family values, showing emotional fluency.
Visiting Friends	Visiting friends maintains relationships. IELTS students can talk about meeting regularly, showing comfort in everyday communication.
Participating in Group Travel	Group travel fosters teamwork and exploration. IELTS candidates can describe planning trips or sharing experiences.
Playing Board Games	Board games encourage interaction and strategy. IELTS students can discuss family game nights or teamwork.
Going to Parties	Parties allow socialising and enjoyment. IELTS candidates can describe occasions, music, and atmosphere using vivid adjectives.
Joining Community Activities	Community involvement shows social responsibility. IELTS students can discuss local events, charity drives, or environmental projects.
Going Shopping with Friends	Shopping together builds connection and fun. IELTS candidates can describe preferences, styles, or experiences using lifestyle vocabulary.
Joining Language Exchange Groups	Language exchanges improve communication and culture sharing. IELTS students can describe learning through group discussions.
Participating in Public Speaking Events	Public speaking enhances confidence and fluency. IELTS candidates can discuss competitions or clubs that improve articulation.
Visiting Cafes	Meeting friends at cafes encourages conversation. IELTS students can describe atmosphere, favourite drinks, and bonding experiences.
Playing Outdoor Games with Friends	Group games promote fitness and teamwork. IELTS candidates can discuss social enjoyment and group spirit.
Joining Music Bands	Performing in bands builds collaboration. IELTS students can describe practice sessions or stage experiences using expressive vocabulary.
Attending Meetups	Meetups help connect with like-minded people. IELTS candidates can discuss interests and networking opportunities.
Joining Study Groups	Study groups improve understanding and motivation. IELTS students can discuss academic teamwork and shared learning experiences.
Participating in Drama Clubs	Acting in drama clubs promotes confidence and creativity. IELTS candidates can describe rehearsals or performances, using expressive words.
Hosting Get-Togethers	Hosting gatherings reflects hospitality and organisation. IELTS students can describe arranging dinners or celebrations, showcasing descriptive language.
Participating in Community Sports	Community sports promote social awareness and unity. IELTS candidates can discuss teamwork and social well-being.
Joining Charity Groups	Charity groups display compassion. IELTS students can discuss social work or helping others, using emotional and community-based vocabulary.
Attending Concerts	Concerts combine music and social interaction. IELTS candidates can describe crowd experiences and musical enjoyment.
Organising Charity Events	Planning charity events shows empathy and initiative. IELTS students can describe roles, teamwork, and outcomes.
Attending Art Exhibitions	Visiting art shows indicates cultural interest. IELTS candidates can describe artworks, settings, and feelings.
Joining Youth Organisations	Youth groups encourage teamwork and leadership. IELTS students can discuss their involvement in social projects.
Going for Picnics	Picnics represent leisure and bonding. IELTS candidates can describe the setting, activities, and relaxation.
Joining Debate Clubs	Debating develops logical thinking and fluency. IELTS students can describe preparing arguments and improving confidence.
Participating in Religious Gatherings	Religious events promote unity and values. IELTS candidates can describe traditions and emotions.
Going on Group Hikes	Hiking in groups combines adventure and friendship. IELTS students can discuss experiences, teamwork, and nature vocabulary.
Attending Music Festivals	Music festivals represent energy and culture. IELTS candidates can describe crowd atmosphere, performances, and memories.
Visiting Theme Parks	Theme parks provide excitement and bonding. IELTS students can describe rides, fun, and togetherness.
Organising School Events	Event planning builds responsibility. IELTS candidates can describe teamwork and management experiences.
Joining Theatre Groups	Theatre groups encourage confidence and creativity. IELTS students can discuss teamwork, rehearsals, and performances.
Participating in Online Communities	Online groups promote connection and knowledge-sharing. IELTS candidates can describe virtual friendships and learning.
Attending Seminars	Seminars offer learning and interaction. IELTS students can discuss topics, speakers, or benefits.
Joining Dance Groups	Dance groups promote fitness and coordination. IELTS candidates can discuss teamwork and enjoyment.
Participating in Environmental Campaigns	Environmental groups show awareness and care. IELTS students can describe clean-up activities or awareness drives.
Going to Libraries with Friends	Visiting libraries promotes learning and companionship. IELTS candidates can describe shared interests in books.
Joining Adventure Clubs	Adventure clubs combine thrill and teamwork. IELTS students can discuss trips or challenges using vivid language.
Attending Networking Events	Networking events develop social confidence. IELTS candidates can describe meeting professionals and exchanging ideas.
Joining Fitness Classes	Fitness classes mix exercise and friendship. IELTS students can describe group workouts, motivation, and social connection.

Important Vocabulary List for IELTS Hobbies Topic

Having explored the various types of hobbies, it is equally important to learn topic-related vocabulary that helps candidates express their ideas naturally and precisely during the IELTS Speaking Test. A strong vocabulary allows test-takers to describe activities, feelings, and preferences with confidence, avoiding repetition and hesitation. Using these words appropriately shows fluency and range of lexical resources, which are crucial for achieving a higher band score.

Below is a list of useful vocabulary words and phrases often used when discussing hobbies in the IELTS exam. Each term is accompanied by its meaning and an example to help you understand how to use it naturally in your responses.

List of Words for IELTS Hobbies	Meaning	Example Sentences
Leisure	Free time available for enjoyment	In my leisure time, I enjoy painting and reading novels.
Pastime	An activity done regularly for enjoyment	My favourite pastime is gardening because it helps me relax.
Pursue	To engage in or follow an activity	I pursue photography as a hobby during weekends.
Enthusiast	A person who is very interested in something	I’m a fitness enthusiast who enjoys working out regularly.
Creativity	The use of imagination to produce something new	Painting allows me to express my creativity after work.
Recreation	Activity done for enjoyment and relaxation	Outdoor recreation like hiking helps me recharge.
Fascinated	Extremely interested or attracted to something	I’m fascinated by travel documentaries and exploring new cultures.
Relaxation	The state of resting and feeling calm	Yoga provides me complete relaxation after a busy day.
Skillful	Having or showing skill	He is skillful at playing the violin, which impresses everyone.
Therapeutic	Having a healing or calming effect	Gardening is quite therapeutic and helps reduce stress.
Dedicated	Devoted or committed to an activity	I’m dedicated to improving my piano-playing skills.
Socialize	To interact and spend time with others	Playing football helps me socialize with people from different backgrounds.
Engaging	Interesting and enjoyable	Watching movies is an engaging way to spend my evenings.
Rewarding	Giving satisfaction or benefit	Volunteering is a rewarding hobby that brings a sense of purpose.
Productive	Resulting in positive or useful outcomes	Spending weekends on creative writing feels productive and fun.
Challenging	Demanding effort or skill	Rock climbing is a challenging hobby that builds confidence.
Admire	To respect or appreciate something	I admire people who dedicate time to creative arts.
Inspire	To motivate or encourage	Photography inspires me to see beauty in everyday life.
Explore	To discover or learn more about something	Travelling helps me explore different lifestyles and cultures.
Improve	To make better or develop skills	Reading English novels helps me improve my vocabulary.
Develop	To enhance or grow in ability	Joining a music club helped me develop teamwork skills.
Participate	To take part in an activity	I often participate in weekend workshops to learn new things.
Experience	Knowledge or skill gained over time	Through cooking, I’ve gained experience in different cuisines.
Balance	To maintain stability between activities	Doing yoga helps me balance my work and personal life.
Interaction	Communication between people	Group sports provide great opportunities for social interaction.
Entertainment	Activity that provides enjoyment	Music concerts are my favourite form of entertainment.
Express	To show feelings or ideas	Creative writing helps me express my emotions clearly.
Relaxing	Making you feel calm and comfortable	Listening to soft music is relaxing after a stressful day.
Enjoyable	Pleasing and fun	Spending time painting is one of the most enjoyable hobbies.
Passionate	Showing strong interest or enthusiasm	I’m passionate about photography and nature exploration.
Consistent	Regular or steady in activity	I try to be consistent with my morning exercise routine.
Explore	To travel or learn about new things	I love to explore local markets during my holidays.
Curious	Eager to learn or know more	I’m curious about different cuisines, which makes cooking enjoyable.
Skill Development	Process of improving abilities	Engaging in new hobbies promotes skill development.
Habitual	Done regularly or as a habit	Reading before bed has become my habitual routine.
Tranquil	Calm and peaceful	Gardening in the evening gives me a tranquil feeling.
Artistic	Related to art or creativity	She has an artistic approach to photography.
Innovative	Using new ideas or methods	Creative hobbies often encourage innovative thinking.
Engrossed	Deeply involved or absorbed	I get completely engrossed when painting landscapes.
Refreshing	Reviving or energising	A morning jog feels refreshing and sets a positive tone.
Motivated	Driven to take action or achieve something	I stay motivated by setting small creative goals.
Fulfilling	Making you feel satisfied and content	Teaching art to children is a fulfilling hobby.
Concentration	Focused attention on a task	Playing chess improves mental concentration.
Enhance	To increase or improve quality	Practising English speaking enhances fluency.
Time Management	Ability to use time efficiently	Hobbies teach time management and balance.
Confidence	Belief in one’s abilities	Performing in drama clubs boosted my confidence.
Mindfulness	Being fully present and aware	Yoga encourages mindfulness and focus.
Discipline	Ability to follow consistent habits	Regular practice of hobbies helps build discipline.
Perspective	A particular way of viewing things	Travelling changes one’s perspective towards life.

Explore: Market Places (Follow-up Questions): IELTS Speaking Topic

Collocations and Idiomatic Expressions for Hobbies

Developing a strong vocabulary for hobbies is only part of IELTS preparation. To sound natural and fluent, candidates should also learn useful collocations and idiomatic expressions. Collocations are common word pairings that native speakers use naturally, while idioms add personality and expressiveness to speech. Using these appropriately in the IELTS Speaking Test demonstrates lexical range, coherence, and cultural understanding, important factors that can improve a candidate’s band score.

Below is a list of collocations and idiomatic expressions related to hobbies, along with their meanings and examples relevant to IELTS contexts.

List of Collocations for Hobbies in IELTS exams	Meaning	Example Sentence
Take up a hobby	To start doing a new hobby	I recently took up painting to relax after work.
Pursue a passion	To follow something you deeply enjoy	I always try to pursue my passion for photography whenever I travel.
Spare time activities	Things done during free time	My spare time activities include reading and yoga.
Spend time on	To dedicate time to an activity	I like to spend time on gardening every weekend.
Develop a skill	To improve ability in something	Playing guitar helped me develop my sense of rhythm.
Broaden one’s horizons	To expand knowledge or experience	Travelling helps me broaden my horizons and learn about cultures.
Engage in	To take part in an activity	I engage in swimming as part of my fitness routine.
Find something relaxing	To consider an activity calming	I find cooking relaxing after a busy day.
Be passionate about	To have a strong interest in something	I’m passionate about writing short stories.
Take part in	To participate in	I often take part in local art workshops.
Keep fit	To stay physically healthy	I go jogging daily to keep fit and active.
Make progress	To improve or advance	I’ve made a lot of progress in learning guitar this year.
Pass the time	To spend time doing something enjoyable	I read books to pass the time when I’m travelling.
Catch up with friends	To meet and talk after some time	I usually catch up with friends over coffee during weekends.
Work on a project	To focus on creating something	I’m currently working on a photography project in my spare time.
Take a break	To rest from work or studies	Engaging in my hobby helps me take a break from stress.
Learn something new	To gain new knowledge or skills	I try to learn something new every month through my hobbies.
Improve concentration	To enhance focus	Playing chess regularly has improved my concentration.
Join a club	To become a member of a group	I joined a book club to meet people who share my interests.
Balance work and leisure	To maintain harmony between job and hobbies	Hobbies help me balance work and leisure effectively.

Idiom Expressions for Hobbies in IELTS exams

Continuing from the previous section on collocations, this part highlights idiomatic expressions that can make hobby-related answers sound more engaging and fluent. Using idioms appropriately in the IELTS Speaking Test helps candidates express emotions, opinions, and enthusiasm more naturally, which contributes to a higher lexical resource score.

Idiom Expressions for Hobbies in IELTS exams	Meaning	Example Sentence
Have a knack for	To be naturally good at something	I have a knack for sketching portraits.
Lose track of time	To be so absorbed that time passes quickly	When I paint, I often lose track of time.
Be hooked on	To be very interested in something	I’m hooked on learning new languages.
Take one’s mind off things	To distract yourself from worries	Reading novels helps me take my mind off things.
Get into the swing of things	To become comfortable doing something	It took me a while to get into the swing of yoga practice.
In one’s element	To feel comfortable doing what you enjoy	I feel in my element when I’m playing the piano.
Kill time	To do something to make time pass faster	I usually watch documentaries to kill time at airports.
Recharge one’s batteries	To rest and regain energy	Weekends are when I recharge my batteries through hiking.
A change of pace	Something different from routine	I take cooking classes as a change of pace from work.
Right up one’s alley	Perfectly suited to someone’s interests	Photography is right up my alley since I love creativity.
Burn the midnight oil	To work or study late at night	I often burn the midnight oil while writing stories.
Go the extra mile	To put in extra effort	I always go the extra mile to improve my art skills.
Be a people person	Someone who enjoys social interaction	Since I’m a people person, I love volunteering and meeting new people.
All work and no play	Working too much without leisure	I believe all work and no play makes life monotonous.
Put one’s heart into	To do something with full passion	I put my heart into every photograph I capture.
Hit the books	To study hard	When I’m not engaged in hobbies, I hit the books for IELTS preparation.
A breath of fresh air	Something new and refreshing	Trying pottery was a breath of fresh air for me.
Learn the ropes	To understand how something is done	After joining the drama club, I slowly learned the ropes of acting.
Out and about	Being active or going places	I prefer staying out and about instead of sitting at home.
Keep oneself occupied	To stay busy doing something	I keep myself occupied by reading and sketching during free hours.

Also Read: Describe an Outdoor Activity You Did in a New Place: IELTS Speaking Topic

IELTS Speaking Sample Answers Using Hobby Vocabulary

Learning hobby-related vocabulary is most effective when applied in real speaking situations. This section provides sample IELTS Speaking answers that demonstrate how to use the vocabulary, collocations, and idiomatic expressions discussed earlier. Each response reflects fluency, coherence, and lexical range suitable for higher band scores.

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, candidates are asked general questions about their daily life, preferences, and interests. The sample answers below show how to naturally integrate hobby-related vocabulary and expressions while maintaining fluency and coherence. These examples will help candidates understand how to respond confidently and naturally in real IELTS Speaking situations.

1. What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I usually read self-improvement books or watch travel documentaries. I find reading quite relaxing and productive because it helps me learn something new while improving my English vocabulary. Sometimes, I go jogging to keep fit and recharge my batteries after a long day.

2. Do you think hobbies are important?
Yes, absolutely. Hobbies are essential because they help people maintain a balance between work and leisure. They not only provide relaxation but also improve creativity and time management. For instance, my hobby of sketching keeps me calm and helps me express my emotions better.

3. Have your hobbies changed since childhood?
Yes, they have. When I was younger, I used to enjoy outdoor games with friends, but now I prefer more peaceful hobbies like writing and photography. As I grew older, my interests shifted towards activities that allow personal growth and creativity.

4. How much time do you spend on your hobbies?
I try to dedicate at least one hour a day to my hobbies. Even when I’m busy, I make time on weekends to pursue my passion for photography. It’s a great way to take my mind off work and do something fulfilling.

IELTS Speaking Part 2: Cue Card

In this part, candidates are given a topic card and are expected to speak for one to two minutes. The cue card usually asks them to describe a personal experience or interest in detail. The following sample answer demonstrates how to use hobby-related vocabulary, collocations, and idiomatic expressions effectively to deliver a structured, fluent, and engaging response.

Describe a hobby you enjoy doing regularly. You should say:

• What it is
  
• How you started it
  
• How often you do it
  
• And explain why you enjoy it
  

Sample Answer:

One of my favourite hobbies is photography. I started it about three years ago when I bought my first camera. Initially, I was just curious, but over time, I became passionate about capturing nature and everyday life. I usually go out on weekends to take pictures of landscapes, city streets, or festivals.

Photography helps me broaden my horizons and observe details that others might overlook. I find it relaxing and inspiring at the same time. When I take photos, I often lose track of time because I’m completely engrossed in the process. It’s not just a hobby for me — it’s a creative outlet that helps me express my perspective and stay motivated.

IELTS Speaking Part 3: Discussion

The IELTS speaking part 3, section involves deeper and more analytical questions related to the topic introduced in Part 2. Candidates are expected to express opinions, compare ideas, and discuss broader issues. The sample answers below illustrate how to use advanced hobby-related vocabulary and idiomatic expressions to present thoughtful, coherent, and well-supported arguments during the IELTS Speaking Test.

1. Why do people need hobbies?
People need hobbies to unwind and stay mentally balanced. With busy lifestyles, having a hobby offers a change of pace and reduces stress. Moreover, hobbies can be rewarding because they build skills, improve concentration, and sometimes even open career opportunities.

2. Can hobbies be beneficial for students?
Definitely. Hobbies play a vital role in a student’s life as they promote creativity, teamwork, and time management. For example, participating in a drama club or debate society helps students build confidence and communication skills, which are valuable both academically and personally.

3. Do you think people’s hobbies reflect their personalities?
Yes, to a large extent. People who enjoy artistic hobbies like painting or music often have creative and expressive personalities, while those interested in outdoor sports might be adventurous and energetic. Discussing hobbies in the IELTS exam can actually help candidates reveal aspects of their character in a natural way.

4. How have modern technologies changed people’s hobbies?
Technology has transformed hobbies completely. Many people now pursue digital hobbies such as photography, blogging, or video editing. Social media also allows hobbyists to share their work globally and connect with like-minded individuals. While technology offers convenience, it’s still important to balance online and offline interests.

Tips to Use Hobby Vocabulary 

After reviewing the sample answers above, it becomes clear that using hobby-related vocabulary effectively requires more than memorising words. Candidates must focus on applying these terms naturally within context to reflect fluency, coherence, and confidence. Tips to use hoby vocabulary section highlights practical strategies to help test-takers use hobby vocabulary appropriately in the IELTS Speaking Test.

• Before using any new word or phrase, ensure you fully understand its meaning and when to use it. Examiners can easily identify memorised or misplaced vocabulary. For example, words like therapeutic, productive, or fulfilling should match the emotional tone of the hobby you are describing.
• Using collocations such as take up a hobby, pursue a passion, or broaden my horizons makes speech sound natural and fluent. These word combinations reflect a native-like command of English and show that you can use vocabulary accurately in everyday conversation.
• Idioms can enrich your answers, but only when they fit the context. Instead of overloading your response, include one or two idiomatic expressions like lose track of time or right up my alley to make your answer engaging while maintaining clarity.
• IELTS examiners prefer genuine and personal answers. When talking about hobbies, mention real experiences and feelings. For example, say Photography helps me stay mindful and creative rather than using generic statements. This makes your answer sound spontaneous and authentic.
• Linking ideas smoothly is essential. Connect hobby-related vocabulary with linking phrases such as because, as a result, in addition, or on the other hand. This ensures your response flows naturally and demonstrates strong organisational skills.
• Avoid repeating the same words like enjoy or interesting. Instead, use synonyms such as fascinating, rewarding, or captivating. Combine them with complex sentences to show grammatical range and lexical flexibility.
• Regular practice using IELTS-style hobby questions helps build fluency. Record yourself, review your tone and vocabulary, and identify areas where you can use more descriptive expressions or collocations naturally.
• While showcasing vocabulary is important, accuracy should never be compromised. Use words you are comfortable with, and focus on delivering clear, meaningful, and relevant answers.

Understanding and using the right vocabulary for hobbies is a valuable part of IELTS Speaking preparation. From indoor and outdoor activities to creative and social interests, each hobby offers an opportunity to showcase language skills naturally. By applying precise vocabulary, collocations, and idiomatic expressions, candidates can express their ideas clearly and confidently.

Effective use of hobby-related vocabulary not only reflects lexical range but also demonstrates fluency, coherence, and the ability to communicate real-life experiences, all essential criteria for achieving a higher band score. With consistent practice and awareness of context, every IELTS aspirant can turn simple topics like hobbies into impressive, well-structured responses.

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