B1 PRELIMINARY · VOCABULARY · TOPIC VOCABULARY
Free time and hobbies
Words like hang out with friends, be into, join a club and relax.
Finn says
'What do you do in your free time?' is one of the most common questions in the exam – in Speaking, Listening and Writing. Learn the words in groups, with the words they go with, and try to use two or three of them next time you practise Speaking or Writing.
Talking about hobbies
be into / be keen on
like a lot
I'm really into photography.
take up
start a new hobby
I've just taken up the guitar.
join a club / a team
become a member
I joined the school chess club.
spend time + -ing
use your time doing something
I spend a lot of time reading.
Going out and relaxing
hang out with friends
spend time with friends (informal)
At weekends I hang out with my friends.
go for a walk / a bike ride
walk / cycle for pleasure
Let's go for a walk in the park.
chill out / relax
rest and feel calm
I like to chill out with music.
Make it better
The same idea, first in basic English, then in the kind of language that gets a higher mark.
- Basic: I like photos very much.Better: I'm really into photography.A natural, informal phrase.
- Basic: I started to play the guitar.Better: I took up the guitar last year.A useful phrasal verb.
- Basic: I am with my friends in the weekend.Better: At the weekend I hang out with my friends.Natural and correct.
Finn's exam tip
Say what you do AND why you like it: 'I'm into cycling because it helps me relax after school.' The 'why' gets you a higher mark.
Quick check
Choose the best answer.
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