Italian Phrase
Hai un hobby?
Meaning
This is a direct question used to ask someone about their interests or leisure activities. It uses the second-person singular form of the verb 'avere' (to have). The word 'hobby' is a common English loanword integrated into modern Italian vocabulary.
When to use
Use this phrase in social situations when getting to know someone better or making small talk. It is perfect for breaking the ice in casual settings like parties, dates, or meeting new acquaintances.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Haiunhobby
Avere (Hai)
This is the second-person singular present tense of 'avere'. Note that the 'h' is silent in Italian.
Un
The masculine indefinite article used here because 'hobby' is a masculine noun.
🗨In Conversation
Ciao Marco, hai un hobby?
Hi Marco, do you have a hobby?
Sì, mi piace molto suonare la chitarra.
Yes, I really like playing the guitar.
✕Common Mistakes
Hai uno hobby?
Although 'hobby' starts with 'h', it is treated as a consonant-starting word that takes the article 'un' instead of 'uno'.
Fai un hobby?
In Italian, you 'have' (avere) a hobby rather than 'do' (fare) one when asking about the possession of an interest.
↔Alternatives
Cosa fai nel tempo libero?
What do you do in your free time?
Quali sono i tuoi interessi?
What are your interests?
Cultural Tip
Italians place a high value on 'il dolce far niente' (the sweetness of doing nothing), but they are also very passionate about specific pastimes like football, cooking, and the arts. While 'hobby' is standard, asking about 'tempo libero' (free time) is a very common and warm way to open a conversation.