Leisure Time may seem like an easy topic, but it can be quite challenging for IELTS test takers. Although it is a common theme, the related vocabulary can be rather specific and not frequently used in daily conversations. Therefore, having a strong vocabulary base and accurate grammar will be essential to score well in the exam.
In this article, IDP will help you reinforce your vocabulary on the topic of Leisure Time and provide sample answers to familiarize you with the test format and spark ideas to impress the examiner.
1. Sample Answers for Leisure Time - IELTS Speaking Part 1
In Part 1 of the Speaking test, the examiner will ask general questions about everyday topics, including Leisure Time. Below are common questions you might encounter in this section.
Question: Do you think hobbies are important
I think hobbies and part-time activities are of paramount importance in modern society because nowadays life is incredibly hectic and people are always up to the ears with work and deadlines. So, it is important to do something in your leisure time to just chill and recover from all that stress.
Vocabulary highlights:
hectic: busy and chaotic
up to the ears: extremely busy
of paramount importance: extremely important
Question: Which hobby would you like to try in the future
Photography. I recently discovered that I truly enjoy taking photos as they are a great way to capture a moment in time. I also love editing them on my phone or computer. Creating aesthetic pictures is always a fun thing to do in my spare time.
Vocabulary highlights:
capture a moment in time: preserve a memory
aesthetic: visually pleasing
ability: skill or capacity
Question: Do you think leisure time is important
Definitely. I feel that if people do not have time for themselves, they will feel very unhappy. This is because working constantly without time to wind down can severely affect mental health, in my opinion.
Vocabulary highlights:
wind down: relax
tremendously: significantly
mental health: emotional and psychological well-being
2. Sample Answer for IELTS Speaking Part 2
In Part 2, the examiner will give you a cue card with a topic and several prompts. You will have 1 minute to prepare and 2 minutes to speak.
Question: Describe what you usually do in your leisure time
When talking about my leisure activity, the first thing that comes to mind is enjoying time by myself. Since I have to work with people all week, a little time alone on the weekend helps me refresh my mind and find my inner peace after a stressful week filled with workload.
To unwind, I love lying on the couch with my dogs and reading books. Reading allows me to escape into another world. Books help me widen my horizon and spark my imagination. This hobby also fuels my creativity, which benefits my side job as a writer. In that sense, reading is both enjoyable and rewarding.
I have been passionate about reading since childhood and have always dreamed of having my own library filled with all the books I treasure. Although collecting books can cost an arm and a leg, it is worth the effort.
Vocabulary highlights:
the first thing that comes to mind: immediate thought
inner peace: personal calm
widen one’s horizon: broaden one’s knowledge
mind’s eye: imagination
think outside the box: think creatively
treasure something: value highly
cost an arm and a leg: very expensive
3. Sample Questions and Answers for Part 3
In Part 3, the examiner will expand the topic and ask follow-up questions. Try to use advanced vocabulary and concise responses.
Question: How has the way we spend free time changed over the years
There are more digital distractions like smartphones and streaming platforms, which reduce real human interaction. Unlike previous generations, today's youth tend to spend more time online than offline. Leisure time has evolved due to changes in technology and culture. However, the actual amount of free time has also shrunk because of busy and stressful work schedules.
Vocabulary highlights:
digital distractions: electronic diversions
real people-to-people interactions: genuine human connections
previous generation: older age group
evolve: develop or change over time
shrink: become smaller
Question: Do you think only old people have time for leisure
Absolutely not. People of all age groups need and deserve leisure time. Resting is essential for maintaining productivity and mental well-being. While some may claim they are too busy, I believe it is a matter of prioritization. If we recognize its value, we will make time for it.
Vocabulary highlights:
age demographics: age groups
unwind: relax
alleviate: reduce or ease
occupied with: busy with
Question: Is there any difference in how people spend free time now compared to the past
Yes. Modern technology has significantly changed leisure activities. In the past, young people played traditional outdoor games, whereas today many prefer video games or browsing the web. As a result, people are becoming less physically active and less creative.
Vocabulary highlights:
have a great impact on: strongly influence
leisure pursuits: enjoyable activities during free time
4. Vocabulary for Leisure Time - IELTS Speaking
Vocabulary | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
to play football or basketball | engage in sports | He hurt his leg while playing football |
to go surfing or sailing | water sports | They go surfing every weekend |
to surf or browse the internet | go online | He came across that interview while browsing online |
to sew or knit | do needlework | I had endless hours to knit and sew |
to make crafts | do handmade projects | He spent years perfecting his craft |
to write stories or blogs | creative writing | Lots of stories have been going around lately |
to have big feasts on weekends | enjoy large meals | They prepared a great feast for the special occasion |
to catch a flick | watch a movie | Do you want to catch a flick tonight |
to shoot some hoops | play basketball | I used to shoot hoops every Sunday |
to let out some steam | release stress | She jogs to let off steam after work |
go to cultural locations and events | attend cultural activities | Bryant Park held many cultural events and exhibitions |
5. Common Expressions and Idioms for Leisure Time
Phrases
be out of one’s comfort zone: try something new
indulge oneself in something: fully enjoy something
get or have a day off: have time off work or school
capture a moment in time: take a meaningful photo
something worth making time for: valuable enough to prioritize
forget your everyday worries: escape stress
reduce stress levels: feel more relaxed
keep it low key: stay in and take it easy
Idioms
up to the ears: very busy
burn the candle at both ends: work from morning to night
let your hair down: relax and enjoy yourself
paint the town red: go out and have fun
catch some rays: spend time in the sun
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