Italian Phrase
Cosa ti piace fare nel tempo libero?
Meaning
This phrase is a common and natural way to ask someone about their hobbies or activities they enjoy outside of work or obligations. It directly translates to "What to you pleases to do in the free time?", highlighting the 'piacere' (to please) verb structure in Italian.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to get to know someone better, especially in casual social settings or when making new friends. It's perfect for starting a conversation about personal interests and finding common ground.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Cosatipiacefareneltempolibero
Cosa
'Cosa' means 'what' and is commonly used to ask about things or activities. It can also be shortened to 'Che cosa?' or just 'Che?' in some contexts, but 'Cosa' is very versatile.
ti piace
This uses the verb 'piacere' (to please), which works differently from 'to like' in English. 'Ti piace' literally means 'it pleases you'. The 'ti' is an indirect object pronoun meaning 'to you'.
fare
'Fare' means 'to do' or 'to make'. When 'piacere' is followed by another verb, that verb is always in the infinitive form, like 'fare'.
nel tempo libero
'Nel' is a contraction of 'in' (in) and 'il' (the). 'Tempo libero' means 'free time'. This whole phrase means 'in the free time'.
🗨In Conversation
Ciao! Cosa ti piace fare nel tempo libero?
Hi! What do you like to do in your free time?
Mi piace leggere e fare lunghe passeggiate.
I like to read and take long walks.
✕Common Mistakes
Che ti piace fare nel tempo libero?
While 'che' can mean 'what', 'cosa' is generally preferred when asking 'what' as a direct object or subject, especially in questions about activities or things.
Cosa tu piace fare nel tempo libero?
The pronoun 'ti' (to you) is used with 'piacere' because the verb literally means 'to please'. 'Tu' is the subject pronoun and is not used here.
Cosa ti piace a fare nel tempo libero?
The verb 'piacere' is followed directly by an infinitive verb (fare) without a preposition like 'a'.
↔Alternatives
Quali sono i tuoi hobby?
What are your hobbies?
Cosa fai quando non lavori?
What do you do when you don't work?
Hai qualche passione?
Do you have any passions?
Cultural Tip
Italians value their free time (tempo libero) and often engage in social activities, sports, or cultural pursuits. Asking this question is a great way to show genuine interest in someone's life beyond work. Be prepared to share your own interests in return, as conversation is often a two-way street.