Are you looking for the most complete and practical hobby vocabulary list for your ESL class? This post has everything you need to teach hobbies in a way that is fun, clear, and engaging for your students.
We’ve carefully organized 100 useful words into 10 popular hobby categories like sports, music, collecting, and more. Each word includes its CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a short meaning, and an example sentence—perfect for your lesson plans!
This list is not just for vocabulary practice. You can use these words to create meaningful conversations, lively debates, and fun role-plays. They also work great with questions, idioms, and common expressions related to each hobby type.
Whether you’re teaching beginners or advanced learners, this list helps students build real-life language skills while talking about what they love. You’ll also find it easy to use these words in reading, speaking, writing, or listening tasks.
If you want a complete toolkit to boost student interest and make your hobby vocabulary lessons unforgettable, keep reading—this post is made just for you!
Table of Contents
Why Hobby Vocabulary Matters in ESL
Hobby vocabulary lets learners speak about their own lives. When they describe favorite pastimes, English feels personal and safe.
These words link class content to everyday action. Students meet verbs, nouns, and adjectives in a clear, real setting.
Teach the words by theme—sports one day, art the next. Short talks, posters, or diaries help learners use them right away.
Quick games and reviews keep the terms fresh. Regular practice moves hobby vocabulary into long‑term memory and real conversation.
1. Hobby Vocabulary: Creative Hobbies
Creative hobbies are a great way to make learning fun and meaningful. In the ESL classroom, they help students talk about their interests and express ideas using real-life language.
This section focuses on hobby vocabulary related to artistic and imaginative activities like painting, drawing, and crafting. Each entry includes the IPA pronunciation, CEFR level, a clear meaning, and a short example sentence to support learning.
You can use this hobby vocabulary in conversation practice, writing tasks, or themed lessons to keep students motivated and connected to the content.
1. n. painting
IPA: /ˈpeɪntɪŋ/
Meaning: The act of using paint to create pictures or designs.
Example Sentence: She enjoys painting landscapes on the weekend.
2. n. drawing
IPA: /ˈdrɔːɪŋ/
Meaning: The act of making pictures with a pen, pencil, or other tools.
Example Sentence: His drawing of the cat was very realistic.
3. n. sketch
IPA: /sketʃ/
Meaning: A quick, simple drawing without much detail.
Example Sentence: He showed me a sketch of the new building.
4. n. photography
IPA: /fəˈtɒɡrəfi/
Meaning: The activity of taking or producing photos.
Example Sentence: She studied photography at art school.
5. n. sculpture
IPA: /ˈskʌlptʃə(r)/
Meaning: A three-dimensional work of art made from stone, wood, or other materials.
Example Sentence: The museum displayed a sculpture made of ice.
6. v. paint
IPA: /peɪnt/
Meaning: To use colored liquid to make art or cover a surface.
Example Sentence: I like to paint flowers on canvas.
7. n. crafting
IPA: /ˈkrɑːftɪŋ/
Meaning: The activity of making things by hand using various materials.
Example Sentence: Crafting helps me relax after a long day.
8. n. calligraphy
IPA: /kəˈlɪɡrəfi/
Meaning: The art of beautiful handwriting.
Example Sentence: He practiced calligraphy to improve his writing skills.
9. n. collage
IPA: /ˈkɒlɑːʒ/
Meaning: A picture made by sticking different materials onto a surface.
Example Sentence: We made a collage using magazine cutouts.
10. n. origami
IPA: /ˌɒrɪˈɡɑːmi/
Meaning: The Japanese art of folding paper into shapes.
Example Sentence: The students learned to make origami birds.
11. n. design
IPA: /dɪˈzaɪn/
Meaning: The plan or pattern used to create something.
Example Sentence: She created the logo design for our project.
12. v. sketch
IPA: /sketʃ/
Meaning: To make a quick and simple drawing.
Example Sentence: I often sketch ideas before painting.
13. n. printmaking
IPA: /ˈprɪntˌmeɪkɪŋ/
Meaning: The process of making artworks by printing.
Example Sentence: He learned printmaking at an art workshop.
14. n. scrapbooking
IPA: /ˈskræpˌbʊkɪŋ/
Meaning: The activity of making albums with photos, notes, and decorations.
Example Sentence: She made a scrapbook of her summer vacation.
15. n. graffiti
IPA: /ɡrəˈfiːti/
Meaning: Art or writing drawn on walls in public places.
Example Sentence: The graffiti on that wall is colorful and creative.
2. Hobby Vocabulary: Sports and Fitness Hobbies
Talking about sports and fitness is a popular topic in any ESL class. These hobbies are active, exciting, and easy for learners to relate to.
This section offers useful hobby vocabulary for common sports and fitness activities like running, swimming, and yoga. Each word includes IPA pronunciation, CEFR level, meaning, and a simple example sentence.
Teachers can use this vocabulary in speaking games, role-plays, or reading tasks to get students moving, thinking, and communicating in English.
1. n. running
IPA: /ˈrʌnɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: The activity of moving quickly on foot.
Example Sentence: I go running every morning to stay healthy.
2. n. swimming
IPA: /ˈswɪmɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: The activity of moving through water using your body.
Example Sentence: Swimming is my favorite summer hobby.
3. n. cycling
IPA: /ˈsaɪklɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: The activity of riding a bicycle.
Example Sentence: She enjoys cycling through the countryside.
4. n. yoga
IPA: /ˈjəʊɡə/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A form of exercise involving stretching and breathing.
Example Sentence: Yoga helps me feel calm and flexible.
5. n. football
IPA: /ˈfʊtbɔːl/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: A team sport played by kicking a ball to score goals.
Example Sentence: He plays football every weekend with friends.
6. n. basketball
IPA: /ˈbɑːskɪtbɔːl/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A game where two teams try to throw a ball into a hoop.
Example Sentence: My brother is good at basketball.
7. n. jogging
IPA: /ˈdʒɒɡɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A slow form of running for exercise.
Example Sentence: Jogging in the park helps me stay fit.
8. n. weightlifting
IPA: /ˈweɪtlɪftɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: The activity of lifting heavy objects for strength.
Example Sentence: He started weightlifting at the gym last year.
9. n. hiking
IPA: /ˈhaɪkɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Walking long distances in nature.
Example Sentence: We went hiking in the hills last weekend.
10. n. boxing
IPA: /ˈbɒksɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A sport where two people fight using their fists.
Example Sentence: Boxing requires speed and focus.
11. v. train
IPA: /treɪn/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To prepare for a sport or activity through regular practice.
Example Sentence: She trains every day for the marathon.
12. n. gymnastics
IPA: /dʒɪmˈnæstɪks/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: A sport involving physical exercises and movements.
Example Sentence: Gymnastics improves balance and flexibility.
13. n. aerobics
IPA: /eəˈrəʊbɪks/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A kind of exercise done with music to improve fitness.
Example Sentence: The aerobics class starts at 6 pm.
14. n. skating
IPA: /ˈskeɪtɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: The activity of moving on skates over ice or ground.
Example Sentence: Skating is popular in the winter season.
15. v. stretch
IPA: /stretʃ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: To extend your body or limbs to loosen muscles.
Example Sentence: Always stretch before and after exercise.
3. Hobby Vocabulary: Collecting Hobbies
Collecting hobbies are fun and personal. They help learners talk about their interests, describe objects, and share stories or memories.
This section introduces hobby vocabulary related to collecting things like stamps, coins, and rare items. Each word includes the CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a clear meaning, and one example sentence.
Use this list to build lessons around describing possessions, talking about interests, and using adjectives like old, rare, or valuable.
1. n. collection
IPA: /kəˈlekʃən/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A group of similar things that someone gathers and keeps.
Example Sentence: He has a large collection of old stamps.
2. v. collect
IPA: /kəˈlekt/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: To gather and keep similar items as a hobby.
Example Sentence: She collects postcards from every country she visits.
3. n. stamp
IPA: /stæmp/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: A small piece of paper you stick on letters to mail them.
Example Sentence: This stamp is over 50 years old.
4. n. coin
IPA: /kɔɪn/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: A small, flat piece of metal used as money.
Example Sentence: He found an ancient coin at the market.
5. n. antique
IPA: /ænˈtiːk/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: An old and valuable object, often collected or displayed.
Example Sentence: That antique vase belonged to my grandmother.
6. n. figurine
IPA: /ˌfɪɡəˈriːn/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: A small model of a person or animal used as decoration.
Example Sentence: She collects cat figurines from different countries.
7. n. trading card
IPA: /ˈtreɪdɪŋ kɑːd/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A collectible card featuring pictures and stats, often from games or sports.
Example Sentence: He traded a rare trading card with his friend.
8. n. comic book
IPA: /ˈkɒmɪk bʊk/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A book that tells stories using pictures and text.
Example Sentence: My brother has a shelf full of comic books.
9. n. souvenir
IPA: /ˌsuːvəˈnɪə(r)/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: An item kept to remember a place or event.
Example Sentence: I bought a small souvenir from the museum.
10. n. autograph
IPA: /ˈɔːtəɡrɑːf/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: A person’s written signature, especially of famous people.
Example Sentence: She collects autographs of movie stars.
11. adj. rare
IPA: /reə(r)/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Something unusual or hard to find.
Example Sentence: That coin is very rare and expensive.
12. n. action figure
IPA: /ˈækʃən ˌfɪɡə(r)/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A toy figure representing a character, often collected.
Example Sentence: He has a full set of superhero action figures.
13. v. display
IPA: /dɪˈspleɪ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To show something in a way that people can see it.
Example Sentence: She displays her stamp collection in a glass case.
14. n. album
IPA: /ˈælbəm/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A book with pages for keeping stamps, photos, or cards.
Example Sentence: His coin album is full of shiny pieces.
15. adj. valuable
IPA: /ˈvæljuəbl/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Worth a lot of money or important in meaning.
Example Sentence: Some of her antiques are very valuable.
4. Hobby Vocabulary: Music and Performing Arts
Music and performing arts hobbies are full of energy and emotion. They help learners build confidence, improve pronunciation, and express themselves in fun ways.
This section presents hobby vocabulary for activities like singing, dancing, playing instruments, and acting. Each word includes the CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a clear meaning, and one example sentence.
Use this vocabulary in performance-based lessons, listening activities, or role-plays to make your ESL class lively and interactive.
1. n. singing
IPA: /ˈsɪŋɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: The activity of producing musical sounds with the voice.
Example Sentence: She enjoys singing in the school choir.
2. n. dancing
IPA: /ˈdɑːnsɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: Moving your body to music, often in a rhythmic way.
Example Sentence: Dancing makes me feel happy and free.
3. v. act
IPA: /ækt/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: To perform in a play, film, or show.
Example Sentence: He acted in the school play last year.
4. n. guitar
IPA: /ɡɪˈtɑː(r)/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: A musical instrument with strings played by hand.
Example Sentence: She plays the guitar every evening.
5. n. piano
IPA: /piˈænəʊ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: A large musical instrument with keys that you press to make sounds.
Example Sentence: I’m learning to play the piano this year.
6. n. microphone
IPA: /ˈmaɪkrəfəʊn/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A device that helps project or record a person’s voice.
Example Sentence: The singer held the microphone and smiled.
7. n. stage
IPA: /steɪdʒ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A platform where performers present music, plays, or shows.
Example Sentence: The band performed on a big stage.
8. n. theatre
IPA: /ˈθɪətə(r)/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A place where plays or shows are performed.
Example Sentence: We went to the theatre to watch a musical.
9. n. drama
IPA: /ˈdrɑːmə/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A type of play or acting performance, often serious or emotional.
Example Sentence: She joined a weekend drama class.
10. n. composer
IPA: /kəmˈpəʊzə(r)/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: A person who writes music.
Example Sentence: Beethoven is a famous classical composer.
11. v. perform
IPA: /pəˈfɔːm/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To present music, dance, or drama to an audience.
Example Sentence: They performed a dance at the school event.
12. n. lyrics
IPA: /ˈlɪrɪks/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: The words of a song.
Example Sentence: I can’t remember all the lyrics to that song.
13. n. violin
IPA: /ˌvaɪəˈlɪn/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A string instrument played with a bow.
Example Sentence: She played a solo on the violin.
14. n. audience
IPA: /ˈɔːdiəns/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A group of people watching a show or performance.
Example Sentence: The audience clapped at the end.
15. adj. musical
IPA: /ˈmjuːzɪkl/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: Related to music, or having talent in music.
Example Sentence: He’s very musical and plays two instruments.
5. Hobby Vocabulary: Tech and Digital Hobbies
Tech and digital hobbies are becoming more popular among learners of all ages. These hobbies involve using computers, devices, or the internet in creative or skill-based ways.
This section includes hobby vocabulary related to activities like gaming, video editing, coding, and blogging. Each word features its CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a clear meaning, and one easy example.
Teachers can use this vocabulary in lessons about technology, media, or modern lifestyles to keep learners engaged and updated.
1. n. gaming
IPA: /ˈɡeɪmɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: Playing video games as a hobby.
Example Sentence: Gaming helps him relax after school.
2. v. code
IPA: /kəʊd/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To write instructions in a computer programming language.
Example Sentence: She learned to code during the summer break.
3. n. blogging
IPA: /ˈblɒɡɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Writing and publishing posts on a blog.
Example Sentence: He enjoys blogging about food and travel.
4. n. vlogging
IPA: /ˈvlɒɡɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Creating and sharing video blogs.
Example Sentence: She started vlogging her daily life on YouTube.
5. n. podcasting
IPA: /ˈpɒdkɑːstɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: Recording and sharing audio episodes online.
Example Sentence: They run a podcasting channel about movies.
6. n. photo editing
IPA: /ˈfəʊtəʊ ˌedɪtɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Changing and improving images using software.
Example Sentence: She does photo editing as a part-time job.
7. n. video editing
IPA: /ˈvɪdiəʊ ˌedɪtɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Cutting and arranging video clips into a final version.
Example Sentence: He learned video editing from an online course.
8. n. animation
IPA: /ˌænɪˈmeɪʃən/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: Creating moving images using drawings or digital tools.
Example Sentence: She studies animation at design school.
9. n. streaming
IPA: /ˈstriːmɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Watching or broadcasting video or audio content live or online.
Example Sentence: He spends hours watching game streaming.
10. n. app design
IPA: /ˈæp dɪˌzaɪn/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: Creating the layout and function of mobile applications.
Example Sentence: She is interested in app design for smartphones.
6. Hobby Vocabulary: Outdoor and Nature Hobbies
Outdoor and nature hobbies are perfect for learners who enjoy being active and exploring the world around them. These hobbies connect language with the environment, seasons, and real-life activities.
This section covers hobby vocabulary for outdoor and nature-based hobbies like hiking, gardening, and birdwatching. Each entry includes the CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a simple meaning, and a short example sentence.
You can use these words in lessons about the environment, weather, or healthy living to make learning practical and fun.
1. n. hiking
IPA: /ˈhaɪkɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Walking long distances in nature or the countryside.
Example Sentence: We went hiking in the hills last Saturday.
2. n. camping
IPA: /ˈkæmpɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: Staying in a tent or outdoor shelter for fun.
Example Sentence: The kids loved camping by the lake.
3. n. gardening
IPA: /ˈɡɑːdənɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: Growing and caring for plants as a hobby.
Example Sentence: My grandmother spends hours gardening every day.
4. n. fishing
IPA: /ˈfɪʃɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: Catching fish for fun or food.
Example Sentence: He enjoys fishing with his father on weekends.
5. n. birdwatching
IPA: /ˈbɜːdwɒtʃɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Looking for and identifying wild birds.
Example Sentence: Birdwatching requires patience and a good eye.
6. n. stargazing
IPA: /ˈstɑːɡeɪzɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Watching stars in the night sky for interest or study.
Example Sentence: We went stargazing during our camping trip.
7. n. rock climbing
IPA: /ˈrɒk ˌklaɪmɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Climbing up natural or artificial rock surfaces.
Example Sentence: Rock climbing is both challenging and exciting.
8. n. surfing
IPA: /ˈsɜːfɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Riding waves on a surfboard in the ocean.
Example Sentence: He learned surfing while visiting Australia.
9. n. trekking
IPA: /ˈtrekɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: Walking a long distance, especially in wild areas.
Example Sentence: Trekking in the mountains takes good stamina.
10. n. nature photography
IPA: /ˈneɪtʃə fəˈtɒɡrəfi/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Taking pictures of plants, animals, and landscapes.
Example Sentence: She enjoys nature photography during holidays.
7. Hobby Vocabulary: Travel and Adventure Hobbies
Travel and adventure hobbies open the door to new places, cultures, and experiences. These hobbies help ESL learners practice real-life communication and use language for sharing stories and giving opinions.
This section includes hobby vocabulary related to travel and adventure, such as backpacking, road-tripping, and exploring. Each entry comes with the CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a clear meaning, and a short example sentence.
You can use this list in lessons on travel, cultures, or holidays to encourage storytelling and active participation.
1. n. backpacking
IPA: /ˈbækˌpækɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Travelling with a backpack, usually on a budget and staying in different places.
Example Sentence: They spent the summer backpacking across Europe.
2. n. road trip
IPA: /ˈrəʊd trɪp/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A long journey made by car, often for fun.
Example Sentence: We took a road trip to the mountains last winter.
3. v. explore
IPA: /ɪkˈsplɔː(r)/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: To travel around and learn about new places.
Example Sentence: She loves to explore new cities on foot.
4. n. adventure
IPA: /ədˈventʃə(r)/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: An exciting or unusual experience, especially while travelling.
Example Sentence: They had a great adventure in the desert.
5. n. sightseeing
IPA: /ˈsaɪtsiːɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: Visiting interesting places, especially when travelling.
Example Sentence: We went sightseeing in Rome all day.
6. n. travel
IPA: /ˈtrævl/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: The act of going from one place to another, especially to distant places.
Example Sentence: I love to travel during school holidays.
7. n. tour
IPA: /tʊə(r)/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A planned trip where you visit several places.
Example Sentence: They took a guided tour of the city.
8. n. cruise
IPA: /kruːz/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A holiday trip by ship, usually with stops at different places.
Example Sentence: They went on a cruise around the Mediterranean.
9. n. itinerary
IPA: /aɪˈtɪnərəri/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: A detailed plan or list of places to visit during travel.
Example Sentence: Our itinerary includes five cities in ten days.
10. n. passport
IPA: /ˈpɑːspɔːt/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: An official document that allows you to travel internationally.
Example Sentence: Don’t forget to pack your passport!
8. Hobby Vocabulary: Home-Based and Relaxation Hobbies
Home-based and relaxation hobbies are calm, creative, and perfect for quiet time. These hobbies help learners talk about their daily routines and personal interests using simple, relatable language.
This section features hobby vocabulary for activities like baking, knitting, journaling, and DIY crafts. Each word includes the CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a clear meaning, and one easy example sentence.
Use these words in lessons about routines, feelings, or creative expression to build comfort and confidence in speaking and writing.
1. n. baking
IPA: /ˈbeɪkɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: The activity of cooking cakes, bread, or cookies in an oven.
Example Sentence: My sister enjoys baking on the weekends.
2. n. knitting
IPA: /ˈnɪtɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Making clothes or fabric using yarn and needles.
Example Sentence: She is knitting a scarf for winter.
3. n. journaling
IPA: /ˈdʒɜːnəlɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Writing down personal thoughts and experiences regularly.
Example Sentence: Journaling helps me clear my mind.
4. n. scrapbooking
IPA: /ˈskræpˌbʊkɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Making a decorated album with photos and memories.
Example Sentence: She made a scrapbook of her school year.
5. n. puzzle
IPA: /ˈpʌzl/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A game or activity that requires thinking to solve.
Example Sentence: I enjoy doing puzzles in my free time.
6. n. DIY
IPA: /ˌdiː aɪ ˈwaɪ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: The activity of making or repairing things at home without help.
Example Sentence: He does a lot of DIY projects on the weekend.
7. n. painting
IPA: /ˈpeɪntɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: Creating pictures using paint and a brush.
Example Sentence: I love painting nature scenes in my room.
8. n. coloring
IPA: /ˈkʌlərɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: Filling drawings with colors using pencils or markers.
Example Sentence: Coloring helps me relax after work.
9. n. sewing
IPA: /ˈsəʊɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Making or fixing clothes using a needle and thread.
Example Sentence: She learned sewing from her grandmother.
10. n. meditation
IPA: /ˌmedɪˈteɪʃən/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: A practice of calming the mind and focusing attention.
Example Sentence: I do meditation every morning before work.
9. Hobby Vocabulary: Language and Learning Hobbies
Language and learning hobbies are perfect for curious learners who enjoy gaining new knowledge and skills. These hobbies also encourage lifelong learning and are easy to connect with classroom goals.
This section introduces hobby vocabulary related to studying, reading, learning languages, and taking courses. Each word includes its CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a simple meaning, and one short example sentence.
You can use these words in classroom discussions, study routines, or reflection activities to build vocabulary and learner motivation.
1. n. reading
IPA: /ˈriːdɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: The activity of looking at and understanding written words.
Example Sentence: I spend an hour reading every night.
2. v. study
IPA: /ˈstʌdi/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: To learn about a subject through books, classes, or practice.
Example Sentence: She studies English grammar every weekend.
3. n. language learning
IPA: /ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ ˌlɜːnɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: The process of learning to speak and understand a new language.
Example Sentence: Language learning can be fun with the right tools.
4. n. audiobook
IPA: /ˈɔːdiəʊbʊk/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A book that is read aloud and recorded for listening.
Example Sentence: He listens to audiobooks while walking.
5. n. online course
IPA: /ˈɒnlaɪn kɔːs/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: A class taught over the internet.
Example Sentence: She’s taking an online course on psychology.
6. n. journal
IPA: /ˈdʒɜːnl/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A notebook for writing daily thoughts or learning progress.
Example Sentence: He keeps a learning journal to track new words.
7. v. memorize
IPA: /ˈmeməraɪz/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To learn something so well you can remember it exactly.
Example Sentence: I memorized ten new phrases last night.
8. n. notetaking
IPA: /ˈnəʊtteɪkɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: Writing down important information while studying or listening.
Example Sentence: Good notetaking helps with test preparation.
9. n. spelling
IPA: /ˈspelɪŋ/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: The correct order of letters in a word.
Example Sentence: I’m practicing the spelling of difficult words.
10. n. quiz
IPA: /kwɪz/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: A short test or game to check your knowledge.
Example Sentence: We had a vocabulary quiz today in class.
10. Hobby Vocabulary: Social and Volunteering Hobbies
Social and volunteering hobbies help people connect with others and give back to the community. These hobbies also build teamwork and communication skills—great topics for ESL conversations.
This section introduces hobby vocabulary for social and helpful activities like volunteering, mentoring, and organizing events. Each word includes the CEFR level, IPA pronunciation, a short meaning, and one simple example sentence.
Use these words in lessons about community, kindness, or teamwork to inspire meaningful discussions and classroom projects.
1. v. volunteer
IPA: /ˌvɒlənˈtɪə(r)/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To give your time to help others without being paid.
Example Sentence: She volunteers at the local animal shelter.
2. n. charity
IPA: /ˈtʃærəti/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: An organization that helps people in need.
Example Sentence: We raised money for a children’s charity.
3. v. help
IPA: /help/
CEFR Level: A1
Meaning: To do something for someone to make things easier.
Example Sentence: He helped his friend move to a new house.
4. n. community service
IPA: /kəˈmjuːnəti ˈsɜːvɪs/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: Work done to help others in your area, often without pay.
Example Sentence: Students did community service at the old-age home.
5. n. mentoring
IPA: /ˈmentərɪŋ/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: Supporting and guiding someone with less experience.
Example Sentence: She enjoys mentoring younger students at school.
6. v. donate
IPA: /dəʊˈneɪt/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To give money or things to help others.
Example Sentence: We donated clothes to the homeless shelter.
7. n. support group
IPA: /səˈpɔːt ɡruːp/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: A group where people share experiences and help each other.
Example Sentence: He joined a support group for new parents.
8. n. fundraiser
IPA: /ˈfʌndreɪzə(r)/
CEFR Level: B2
Meaning: An event to collect money for a cause.
Example Sentence: They planned a fundraiser for cancer research.
9. v. organize
IPA: /ˈɔːɡənaɪz/
CEFR Level: B1
Meaning: To plan and arrange an activity or event.
Example Sentence: He helped organize a school food drive.
10. n. teamwork
IPA: /ˈtiːmwɜːk/
CEFR Level: A2
Meaning: The act of working well with others to reach a goal.
Example Sentence: Teamwork is important when planning big events.
Conclusion
Hobby vocabulary is more than just a list of words—it’s a door to confident speaking, writing, and real-life communication. When learners talk about their hobbies, they feel more connected and motivated.
This ultimate list of 100 words across 10 categories gives you everything you need to create exciting, student-centered lessons. Whether you’re planning a discussion, a writing task, or a group project, this vocabulary will support clear, meaningful language use.
Use it often. Make it fun. And watch your learners grow in fluency and confidence.
FAQs about Using Hobby Vocabulary in ESL Class
What levels is this hobby vocabulary list suitable for?
The list includes CEFR levels from A1 to B2, so it works well for beginner to upper-intermediate students.
Can I use this vocabulary to create speaking activities?
Yes! These words are great for role-plays, group discussions, and personal presentations.
How can I introduce this vocabulary to my class?
Start with a theme, show some pictures, teach 5–10 words, and then use them in a game or speaking task.
Is this list helpful for writing tasks?
Absolutely. Students can use these words in paragraphs, diaries, or opinion essays about hobbies.
Can I use this vocabulary in listening or video lessons?
Yes. Find short videos about hobbies and ask students to listen for key words and phrases.
How do I check if students remember the words?
Use mini quizzes, flashcards, or ask students to use the words in full sentences.
Can I build a full lesson around one category?
Yes! Each category gives enough material for a full vocabulary, speaking, and writing lesson.
Is it useful for classroom debates?
Definitely. You can create fun hobby-themed debates like “Which hobby is better: gaming or sports?”
Should I teach pronunciation with these words?
Yes. Each word includes IPA so you can model the correct sounds and help with speaking accuracy.
Can I combine this list with idioms or expressions?
Yes! Try teaching a few idioms related to hobbies alongside the vocabulary to enrich your lesson.
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