ENGLISH
REFERENCE

free time

compound.
A1 Beginner General-service
Definition

compound. the time when you are not working or studying and can do what you want.

compound. periods of leisure or discretionary time during which one is not occupied by professional, educational, or domestic obligations.


SIMPLE

What do you do in your free time?

CONTEXTUAL

She enjoys painting and hiking in her free time to relax after a busy week.

COMPLEX

The modern workforce increasingly struggles to maintain a clear boundary between professional responsibilities and the pursuit of personal interests during their limited free time.

Usage

usually functions as an uncountable noun and is often preceded by a possessive adjective like 'my' or 'your'.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'leisure time' (more formal) and 'spare time' (near-synonym); 'free time' is the most common and versatile term for general conversation.

Last updated July 29, 2026