Nel tempo libero suono la chitarra.

In my free time I play the guitar.

Pronunciation

'Chitarra' = kee-TAR-ra — double 'r' rolled slightly. 'Suono' = SWOH-no — two syllables.

When to use it

Mention hobbies in a self-introduction to reveal personality and find common ground. 'Nel tempo libero' (in my free time) is the natural phrase for framing leisure activities.

What it means

'Suonare' is used for playing musical instruments. 'Giocare' is used for playing sports and games. This distinction is crucial — you cannot say 'gioco la chitarra.' 'Nel tempo libero' = 'in (my) free time.'

Variations

Faccio musica con un gruppo di amici.

I make music with a group of friends.

'Fare musica' is broader — covers playing, composing, and improvising.

Canto in un coro amatoriale.

I sing in an amateur choir.

'Cantare' (to sing) — 'coro' (choir). Choral singing is popular in Italy.

Ho iniziato a imparare il pianoforte da adulto.

I started learning the piano as an adult.

Adds the context of being a late learner — relatable and often conversation-starting.

Mini Dialogue

— Cosa fai nel tempo libero? — Suono la chitarra. Ho anche un piccolo studio in casa. — Che bello! Scrivi canzoni? — Qualcosa, sì. Niente di professionale, ma mi rilassa molto.

— What do you do in your free time? — I play the guitar. I also have a small studio at home. — How lovely! Do you write songs? — A few things, yes. Nothing professional, but it relaxes me a lot.

Cultural Note

Home music-making is common in Italy. Many Italians play an instrument they learned as children and continue casually in adulthood. Mentioning this immediately opens conversations about shared musical tastes.

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Vivo con il mio compagno.

Mi piace molto cucinare.

← All phrases: Introducing Yourself