French Phrase
Mon passe-temps préféré, c'est dessiner.
Meaning
This phrase literally translates to 'My favorite hobby, it is to draw.' It uses a common French grammatical structure called dislocation, which repeats the subject with a pronoun like 'ce' for emphasis and clarity.
When to use
You should use this phrase in social situations when introducing yourself or discussing your interests. It is a natural way to answer questions about what you do in your spare time or what your passions are.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Monpasse-tempspréféréc'estdessiner
Possessive Adjectives
'Mon' is used here because 'passe-temps' is a masculine singular noun. It must agree with the noun it modifies, not the person speaking.
The 'C'est' Construction
Using 'c'est' before an infinitive verb like 'dessiner' helps to emphasize the activity as the specific subject being discussed.
🗨In Conversation
Qu'est-ce que tu aimes faire pour te détendre ?
What do you like to do to relax?
Mon passe-temps préféré, c'est dessiner.
My favorite hobby is drawing.
✕Common Mistakes
Ma passe-temps préférée, c'est dessiner.
The word 'passe-temps' is masculine, so you must use the masculine possessive adjective 'mon' regardless of your own gender.
Mon passe-temps préféré est dessiner.
While not strictly ungrammatical, using 'est' without 'ce' sounds stiff; native speakers prefer 'c'est' to introduce the activity.
↔Alternatives
J'adore dessiner.
I love drawing.
Le dessin est ma passion.
Drawing is my passion.
Cultural Tip
In France, the term 'violon d'Ingres' is a sophisticated way to refer to a hobby. While 'passe-temps' is common, mentioning your interests is a key part of 'la convivialité' (sociability) during French social gatherings.