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Hobby vs. Pastime: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Hobby is a regular activity done for enjoyment, typically during leisure time, while a pastime is a broader term for any leisure activity.
Hobby vs. Pastime

Key Differences

A hobby is an activity engaged in regularly for pleasure, often during one's leisure time. It implies a deeper commitment and often involves skill development or a creative pursuit. A pastime is a more general term encompassing any leisure activity. It can be a hobby but also includes simpler or more casual activities, such as watching TV.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Hobbies often require a level of dedication and learning. They might include activities like playing an instrument, gardening, or painting. Pastimes, in contrast, are activities that are more about relaxation and casual enjoyment, like casually playing a game or going for walks.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
Hobbies often result in the creation of something or the improvement of a skill. They can be a source of personal achievement and satisfaction. Pastimes are usually less about achievement and more about simple enjoyment or relaxation, such as reading a book or watching movies.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023
The term 'hobby' implies a consistent and ongoing engagement with a particular activity. It's often an integral part of one's routine or lifestyle. A pastime doesn't necessarily have the same regularity or commitment associated with it and can be more sporadic or occasional.
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Shumaila Saeed
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Hobbies can sometimes turn into more than just leisure activities; they can become passions or even careers. Pastimes, while enjoyable, are less likely to evolve into something beyond leisure activities.
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Shumaila Saeed
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Comparison Chart

Level of Engagement

Often involves active participation and skill development
More about relaxation without the need for skill improvement
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Frequency

Regular and consistent
Can be sporadic or occasional
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Nov 23, 2023

Outcome

May result in creation or skill enhancement
Primarily for enjoyment without tangible outcomes
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Nov 23, 2023

Scope

Can be specialized and niche
Broader and more inclusive of various activities
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Nov 23, 2023

Potential for Growth

Can evolve into a passion or career
Generally remains a leisure activity
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Hobby and Pastime Definitions

Hobby

A hobby involves engaging in an activity that is not professionally required but is done for personal satisfaction.
His hobby of building model trains showcases his exceptional attention to detail.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Pastime

Pastime encompasses a broad range of activities from simple relaxation to hobbies.
Gardening is a pastime that helps him relax.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Hobby

A hobby is often a creative or skill-based activity undertaken in one's leisure time.
Painting landscapes is her favorite hobby to unwind.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Pastime

A pastime is any leisure activity that is done for enjoyment.
Watching old movies is her favorite pastime.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Hobby

A hobby is a pursuit outside one's regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation.
Baking cupcakes on weekends is his hobby.
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Pastime

Pastime implies a less structured and casual leisure activity.
Reading magazines is a pastime she indulges in during her commutes.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Hobby

A hobby is a regularly pursued activity done for pleasure.
Her hobby of birdwatching brings her immense joy.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Pastime

Pastime refers to a casual activity or hobby performed during one's free time.
Playing board games with friends is a common pastime.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Hobby

A hobby can be an activity that provides a sense of achievement or skill development.
Learning to play the piano has become more than a hobby for her.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Pastime

An activity that occupies one's spare time pleasantly
Sailing is her favorite pastime.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

An activity or interest pursued outside one's regular occupation and engaged in primarily for pleasure.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Pastime

Something which amuses, and serves to make time pass agreeably.
Chatting is a pleasant pastime.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

Any of several small falcons of the genus Falco, formerly used for catching small birds or game.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Pastime

To sport; to amuse oneself
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

An activity that one enjoys doing in one's spare time.
I like to collect stamps from different countries as a hobby.
Take up a hobby
Give up your hobby
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Pastime

That which amuses, and serves to make time pass agreeably; sport; amusement; diversion; as, that great American pastime, baseball.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

(horses) An extinct breed of horse native to the British Isles, also known as the Irish Hobby
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Pastime

To sport; to amuse one's self.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

Any of four species of small falcons in the genus Falco, especially Falco subbuteo.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Pastime

A diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly);
Sailing is her favorite pastime
His main pastime is gambling
He counts reading among his interests
They criticized the boy for his limited pursuits
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

A small, strong-winged European falcon (Falco subbuteo), formerly trained for hawking.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Pastime

A pastime can be an activity that provides entertainment and relaxation.
Going on nature walks is a pastime she enjoys.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Hobby

A strong, active horse, of a middle size, said to have been originally from Ireland; an ambling nag.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

A stick, often with the head or figure of a horse, on which boys make believe to ride.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

A subject or plan upon which one is constantly setting off; a favorite and ever-recurring theme of discourse, thought, or effort; that which occupies one's attention unduly, or to the weariness of others; a ruling passion.
Not one of them has any hobbyhorse, to use the phrase of Sterne.
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

An auxiliary activity
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Hobby

A child's plaything consisting of an imitation horse mounted on rockers; the child straddles it and pretends to ride
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Hobby

Small Old World falcon formerly trained and flown at small birds
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Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Are hobbies expensive?

It varies; some hobbies require minimal investment, while others can be costly.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Can a pastime be educational?

Yes, some pastimes can be informative and educational.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Are hobbies age-specific?

No, hobbies can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

What defines a hobby?

A hobby is a regular, pleasurable activity often involving skill or knowledge development.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Do pastimes require special skills?

Not necessarily; they are often more about relaxation than skill.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Do hobbies need regular practice?

Typically, yes, to develop and maintain skills.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Is reading a book a hobby or pastime?

It can be both, depending on the level of engagement and regularity.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Is watching TV a hobby?

Generally, it's considered a pastime due to its passive nature.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Can hobbies become professions?

Yes, some hobbies can evolve into professions or businesses.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

How do hobbies benefit mental health?

Hobbies can reduce stress, provide a sense of achievement, and improve mood.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

How to choose a new hobby?

Consider interests, available time, and desired outcomes like relaxation or skill development.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Are digital activities considered hobbies?

Yes, activities like gaming or digital art can be hobbies.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Can pastimes evolve into hobbies?

Yes, casual activities can become more dedicated hobbies over time.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Do hobbies have to be productive?

Not necessarily; the primary purpose is personal enjoyment and fulfillment.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Can pastimes be solitary activities?

Yes, many pastimes like reading or listening to music are enjoyed alone.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

How often should one engage in hobbies?

As often as desired and as time permits, keeping a balance with other life aspects.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Why are hobbies important for children?

They aid in skill development, creativity, and provide a constructive outlet for energy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Can hobbies change over time?

Yes, as interests and circumstances change, so can hobbies.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Can pastimes help in socializing?

Yes, many pastimes like playing games or sports facilitate social interaction.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

Is cooking a hobby or a pastime?

It can be both, depending on the person’s level of dedication and interest.
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Shumaila Saeed
Nov 23, 2023

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About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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