In My Spare Time or On My Spare Time: is a common question for English learners who want natural English and correct grammar in everyday use.
The preposition “in” is the correct phrase for describing activities during free periods, while “on my spare time” is an unnatural expression. A simple memory trick is to remember examples such as “I read in my spare time.” This guide uses plain language, examples, example sentences, and a comparison to explain the standard usage, correct usage, grammar, word choice, sentence structure, and preposition choice. These points can prevent a common mistake, confusion, and uncertainty, while improving communication, communication skills, clarity, eloquence, personality, personal expression, and audience awareness. The phrase also matters in English conversation, writing, an email, LinkedIn, and other professional platforms, where appropriate language can make your message sound less awkward.
The difference between these phrases becomes essential when talking about hobbies and interests. Understanding the English language, proficiency, article, distinction, rules, prepositional phrases, and how correct usage can convey different levels of formality in various contexts makes communication more effective. Despite her young age, Giada Brienza, from the Hydro Flask U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team, has cemented herself as one to watch on the World Cup circuit over the next few years. Based in Copper Mountain, Colorado, her innovative style, progression, and developing extensive bag of tricks were set to debut in her second season, following major success on the Nor-Am circuit, including two victories, five podiums, and a U.S. National Championship title.
“Let’s dive in”
In My Spare Time or On My Spare Time: Which One Is Correct?
The answer is simple:
| Phrase | Correctness | Explanation |
| In my spare time | ✅ Correct | Refers to activities you do during your free hours |
| On my spare time | ❌ Incorrect | “On” does not normally describe periods of free time |
The phrase “in my spare time” works because “spare time” represents a period or space of available time. You can think of your free time as a container. When you have extra moments outside your obligations, you are inside that period, so English uses “in.”
Think about these examples:
- In the morning
- In the afternoon
- In my free time
- In my spare time
All of these refer to a general period rather than one specific point.
On the other hand, “on” usually connects with specific days, dates, or occasions:
- On Monday
- On Christmas Day
- On my birthday
- On the weekend (common in American English)
The difference becomes clearer when you compare them:
I read books in my spare time.
(Reading happens during my available free hours.)
I read books on Monday.
(Reading happens on a specific day.)
What Does “In My Spare Time” Mean?
The phrase “in my spare time” means during the free time you have when you are not busy with your main responsibilities.
Your spare time is the extra time available after completing necessary tasks such as:
- Work
- School
- Household responsibilities
- Appointments
- Daily routines
For example, imagine someone works from 9 AM to 5 PM. After finishing work, they might spend their evening:
- Exercising
- Watching movies
- Reading
- Cooking
- Playing games
- Learning a skill
Those activities happen in their spare time.
Examples of “In My Spare Time”
Example 1: Talking about hobbies
I enjoy photography in my spare time because it helps me relax after a busy week.
Example 2: Introducing yourself
In my spare time, I like hiking, cooking, and exploring new places.
Example 3: Job interview response
In my spare time, I volunteer at a local community center and improve my professional skills through online courses.
The phrase works naturally in casual conversations, professional settings, interviews, and written English.
Why Do People Say “On My Spare Time”?
If “on my spare time” is incorrect, why do so many people use it?
The mistake usually happens because learners connect it with other correct expressions that use “on.”
For example:
- On my day off
- On my vacation
- On my break
- On Monday
Because these phrases refer to time, people sometimes assume that “on” can work everywhere.
However, English prepositions are not interchangeable. Each expression has its own pattern.
Consider these examples:
❌ I exercise on my spare time.
The sentence sounds unnatural because “spare time” is not a specific day or event.
✅ I exercise in my spare time.
This sounds natural because the activity happens within a period of free time.
Understanding the Difference Between “In,” “On,” and “At” for Time
One of the easiest ways to avoid mistakes is to understand how English uses common time prepositions.
“In” for General Periods of Time
We use “in” when we talk about longer or broader periods.
Examples:
- In the morning
- In July
- In 2026
- In my spare time
- In the future
The idea is that something happens within a larger time frame.
Example:
I usually write articles in the evening.
The evening is a period, not one exact moment.
“On” for Specific Days and Dates
We use “on” for individual days and calendar dates.
Examples:
- On Monday
- On Friday night
- On January 10th
- On my anniversary
Example:
We are meeting on Saturday.
Saturday is a specific day.
“At” for Exact Times
We use “at” for precise points in time.
Examples:
- At 8 AM
- At noon
- At midnight
- At lunchtime
Example:
The meeting starts at 3 PM.
The time is exact.
Quick Memory Trick for “In My Spare Time”
Here is a simple way to remember the correct phrase:
Think of spare time as a space.
You step inside that space when your responsibilities are finished.
So:
✅ In my spare time
Not:
❌ On my spare time
Imagine your day as a large calendar. Your work, school, and responsibilities fill most of the pages. The empty spaces left behind are your spare time. You spend your hobbies inside those spaces.
“In My Spare Time” vs. “During My Spare Time”
Many people also wonder whether they should use:
- In my spare time
- During my spare time
Both are correct, but they have slightly different feelings.
| Expression | Meaning | Example |
| In my spare time | More natural for hobbies and habits | I play guitar in my spare time. |
| During my spare time | More formal and emphasizes the period | I studied programming during my spare time. |
In everyday conversation, native speakers usually prefer “in my spare time.”
For example:
Natural:
What do you do in your spare time?
Less common:
What do you do during your spare time?
The second sentence is not wrong, but it sounds slightly more formal.
Read More: All Is vs. All Are: The Complete Grammar Guide With Rules,
Common Mistakes With “In My Spare Time”
Learning the correct phrase is easier when you understand the mistakes people often make.
Using “On My Spare Time”
❌ Incorrect:
I watch movies on my spare time.
✅ Correct:
I watch movies in my spare time.
Adding an Extra “S” to Spare Time
Because people often talk about different activities, they sometimes write:
❌ I enjoy reading in my spare times.
The correct form is:
✅ I enjoy reading in my spare time.
“Spare time” is usually an uncountable noun in this expression.
Using “At My Spare Time”
Some learners also say:
❌ I study English at my spare time.
This is incorrect.
Use:
✅ I study English in my spare time.
Confusing “Spare Time” With “Free Time”
These expressions are very similar.
| Phrase | Meaning | Example |
| Spare time | Extra time available after responsibilities | I paint in my spare time. |
| Free time | Time when you are not occupied | I watch movies during my free time. |
In most situations, they can replace each other.
How Native Speakers Use “In My Spare Time”
The phrase “in my spare time” appears everywhere in everyday English. Native speakers use it when they want to talk about hobbies, personal interests, side projects, or activities they enjoy outside their regular responsibilities.
You will often hear it during:
- Casual conversations
- Job interviews
- Networking events
- Classroom introductions
- Personal statements
- Social media profiles
The phrase works because it quickly tells people what you do when you are not busy with your main commitments.
For example:
“I work as a software developer, and in my spare time, I enjoy building small apps.”
This sentence gives two pieces of information:
- The person’s main occupation
- The activity they choose during their free hours
It creates a more complete picture of someone’s personality.
Using “In My Spare Time” in Everyday Conversations
When people meet someone new, they often ask:
“What do you do in your spare time?”
This question does not ask about your job. Instead, it asks about your interests, hobbies, and personal activities.
Here are some natural responses:
For Creative Activities
In my spare time, I enjoy writing short stories and learning photography.
I spend my spare time painting because it helps me express my creativity.
For Physical Activities
In my spare time, I usually go hiking and play tennis.
I like exercising in my spare time because it keeps me healthy.
For Learning New Skills
In my spare time, I study new languages and take online courses.
I use my spare time to improve my coding skills.
For Relaxation
I watch documentaries in my spare time because I enjoy learning about history.
I usually read novels in my spare time to relax after work.
“In My Spare Time” in Job Interviews
Many people underestimate how useful this phrase can be in professional situations.
Employers sometimes ask about hobbies because they want to understand your personality, interests, and transferable skills.
A thoughtful answer can show qualities such as:
- Creativity
- Discipline
- Curiosity
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving ability
For example:
“In my spare time, I enjoy volunteering at community events. It has helped me develop communication and leadership skills.”
This answer does more than mention a hobby. It connects the activity to personal growth.
Another example:
“In my spare time, I enjoy reading business books and experimenting with new technology projects.”
This suggests curiosity and a willingness to learn.
Professional Alternatives to “In My Spare Time”
Although “in my spare time” is correct and natural, you can use other expressions depending on the situation.
During My Free Time
This phrase has almost the same meaning.
Example:
I practice Spanish during my free time.
It sounds slightly more neutral and focuses on the period itself.
In My Free Time
This is probably the closest alternative.
Example:
I enjoy gardening in my free time.
Many native speakers use free time and spare time interchangeably.
Outside of Work
This expression works well when talking about activities beyond your job.
Example:
Outside of work, I run a small photography business.
When I’m Not Working
This sounds casual and conversational.
Example:
When I’m not working, I usually spend time with my family.
In My Leisure Time
This is more formal and appears more often in writing.
Example:
I enjoy reading historical books in my leisure time.
Comparison of Common Alternatives
| Expression | Tone | Best Used For |
| In my spare time | Natural and common | Everyday conversations |
| In my free time | Casual and widely used | General situations |
| During my free time | Slightly formal | Writing and explanations |
| Outside of work | Professional | Workplace discussions |
| In my leisure time | Formal | Essays and articles |
| When I’m not busy | Casual | Friendly conversations |
Examples of “In My Spare Time” in Different Situations
The phrase adapts easily depending on who is speaking and what they want to express.
Students
Students often use spare time to learn, relax, or explore interests.
Examples:
In my spare time, I practice playing the piano.
I read science articles in my spare time because I want to learn more about technology.
Professionals
Working adults often mention hobbies that help them recharge.
Examples:
In my spare time, I enjoy cooking new recipes and spending time outdoors.
I work long hours, but I try to exercise in my spare time.
Entrepreneurs
Business owners often use the phrase when discussing side projects.
Examples:
In my spare time, I develop ideas for future business projects.
I write about marketing strategies in my spare time.
Retired People
Retired individuals may describe activities they now have more time to enjoy.
Examples:
In my spare time, I travel and explore different cultures.
I spend my spare time gardening and volunteering.
Common Expressions Related to Spare Time
English has many phrases connected to having extra time.
Understanding these expressions helps you communicate more naturally.
| Expression | Meaning | Example |
| Have time on my hands | Have extra available time | I had some time on my hands, so I cleaned my office. |
| Make time for something | Create time for an activity | I make time for exercise every morning. |
| Find time | Manage to get available time | I find time to read before bed. |
| Take some time off | Rest away from work or duties | I’m taking some time off next week. |
| Kill time | Spend time while waiting | I played a game to kill time. |
These phrases are related to spare time but have different meanings.
For example:
I read books in my spare time.
means reading is a hobby.
However:
I read books to kill time.
means reading is simply a way to pass time while waiting.
A Real-Life Comparison: Choosing the Right Phrase
Imagine three people describing their daily routines.
Person A: The Student
“I study engineering during the day. In my spare time, I build small robots.”
The phrase highlights a personal passion.
Person B: The Employee
“I work in marketing. Outside of work, I enjoy photography.”
This sounds professional and separates work from personal life.
Person C: The Traveler
“In my free time, I explore new places and learn about different cultures.”
This sounds natural in a conversation.
Each sentence works because the speaker chooses an expression that matches the situation.
How to Avoid Preposition Mistakes in English
Prepositions are among the most challenging parts of English because they do not always follow logical rules.
Many learners try to translate directly from their first language. However, this often creates unnatural phrases.
A better approach is to learn common expressions as complete units.
Instead of memorizing:
- “in” means this
- “on” means that
Learn:
- in my spare time
- on Monday
- at noon
- in the morning
English speakers remember these combinations naturally because they hear them repeatedly.
Mini Quiz: Test Your Knowledge
Choose the correct option.
Question 1
I enjoy cooking ______ my spare time.
A) on
B) in
C) at
Answer: B) in
Question 2
She plays tennis ______ Saturdays.
A) in
B) on
C) at
Answer: B) on
Question 3
He studies English ______ his free time.
A) in
B) on
C) at
Answer: A) in
Question 4
The meeting begins ______ 9 AM.
A) in
B) on
C) at
Answer: C) at
FAQs:
1. Is “in my spare time” correct?
Yes, “in my spare time” is the standard and natural phrase. It means you do something during the free time you have outside your regular work, study, or responsibilities.
2. Is “on my spare time” grammatically correct?
No. “On my spare time” is not standard English. Use “in my spare time” instead when describing hobbies, interests, or activities you enjoy during your free hours.
3. Why do we use “in” with spare time?
English commonly uses “in” to describe something happening during a period of time. For example, you can say, “I practice snowboarding in my spare time.”
4. Can I use “in my spare time” in professional writing?
Yes. “In my spare time” works well in emails, LinkedIn profiles, professional conversations, and formal writing. It sounds natural and clear in different contexts.
5. What is an easy way to remember the correct phrase?
Use the memory trick: think of spare time as a period that you are “in.” So, remember “in my spare time,” not “on my spare time.”
Conclusion:
In My Spare Time or On My Spare Time has a simple answer: “in my spare time” is the correct and natural expression. Using the right preposition helps you avoid common grammar mistakes and makes your English sound clearer and more confident. Whether you’re discussing your hobbies, interests, or everyday activities, choosing “in my spare time” will keep your sentence natural in both casual and professional contexts.
