hobbyhorse
das Steckenpferd, die Steckenpferde
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hobbyhorse
An activity or topic that someone particularly enjoys pursuing in depth; a personal special interest.
Sein Steckenpferd ist die Geschichte der mittelalterlichen Städte.
His hobbyhorse is the history of medieval cities.
hobbyhorse
A toy in the shape of a horse's head on a stick that children can ride.
Das Kind galoppierte mit seinem Steckenpferd durch das Wohnzimmer.
The child galloped through the living room on their hobbyhorse.
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| plural | die Steckenpferde |
| genitive | des Steckenpferds |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Steckenpferd | die Steckenpferde |
| accusative | das Steckenpferd | die Steckenpferde |
| dative | dem Steckenpferd | den Steckenpferden |
| genitive | des Steckenpferds des Steckenpferdes | der Steckenpferde |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Steckenpferd' is made up of 'Stecken' (stick) and 'Pferd' (horse). Literally, the word therefore refers to a horse made from a stick, which explains its original meaning as a children's toy.
Auf dem Jahrmarkt bekam das Mädchen ein buntes Steckenpferd.
The girl got a colorful hobbyhorse at the fair.
In its figurative meaning, 'Steckenpferd' (hobbyhorse) often occurs with verbs such as 'haben' (to have), 'sein' (to be), or 'werden' (to become). Typical patterns are 'jemandes Steckenpferd sein' (to be someone's hobbyhorse) and 'ein Steckenpferd haben' (to have a hobbyhorse).
Die Fotografie ist seit vielen Jahren ihr persönliches Steckenpferd.
Photography has been her personal hobbyhorse for many years.
The toy meaning can usually be recognized from words associated with children's activities, such as 'reiten' (to ride), 'Kind' (child), or 'Spielzeug' (toy). If the context refers to a topic or activity, the figurative meaning is intended.
Mit seinem Steckenpferd ritt der Junge durch den Garten.
The boy rode through the garden on his hobbyhorse.
