# free time

CEFR A1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/free-time
Updated: 2026-07-29

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- What do you do in your free time?
- She enjoys painting and hiking in her free time to relax after a busy week.
- 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 notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.