From common and casual phrases to more discreet and polite terminology, we will take a look at the different ways you can express this basic human need.
Whether you’re looking for new ways to talk about using the bathroom, or simply want to learn more about different cultural expressions, this article has something for everyone.
We will cover the origin of certain expressions and the situations they’re most appropriate for, so you can navigate different social and professional settings with confidence.
In this article, we will be exploring various ways to say “going to the toilet” or “using the bathroom.”
So sit back, relax and let’s dive into the world of toilet talk!
19 Polite Ways Of Saying ” Going To The Toilet”
‘Using The Restroom’
“Using the restroom” is a neutral and widely understood phrase used to refer to the act of using the toilet.
It is often used in professional or public settings, such as in the workplace, hotels, airports, and other places where people may need to use the restroom.
This phrase implies that you are going to use a specific designated area that has been set up for this purpose, such as a restroom.
It is a more discreet and polite way to express the need to use the toilet, and it is appropriate to use in different settings.
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Going To The Loo
“Going to the loo” is a phrase primarily used in British English to refer to using the toilet.
It is a colloquial and informal way of expressing the need to use the restroom and it is considered less formal than other ways of referring to the toilet.
The term “loo” is thought to have originated as a shortened form of the phrase “Waterloo,” which referred to the water closet.
The usage of “loo” is more common in casual conversation among friends and family and it’s more informal, it might be less understood in other regions or cultures.
It is most appropriate to use in casual, informal settings among people who are familiar with this terminology.
‘Taking A Trip To The Restroom’
“Taking a trip to the restroom” is a way of saying that you need to use the toilet, it implies the act of leaving a location and going to another place specifically designated to ease yourself.
This phrase gives the idea of a journey or excursion, it’s more neutral and not as direct as other ways of expressing the need to use the toilet.
‘Going To The Potty’
‘Going To The Potty’ is more informal than other ways of referring to the toilet and it is most often used when speaking to young children, or when referring to the bathroom in a preschool or elementary school setting.
The phrase is meant to make the concept of using the toilet more relatable and less daunting to young children, and it can be used as a way to help children feel more comfortable and confident when using the bathroom.
‘Going To The Lavatory’
“Going to the lavatory” is a polite way of referring to the toilet, it implies the use of a specific designated area that has been set up for the purpose of easing oneself, such as a restroom.
The word “lavatory” is derived from the Latin word “lavare” which means to wash, the word is often used in British English and it’s commonly used in public places such as airports, train stations and on airplanes.
The term “lavatory” emphasizes the idea of cleanliness and hygiene, it is a more discreet and polite way to express the need to use the restroom, it’s often used in formal or professional settings.
‘Using The Facilities’
“Using the facilities” is a polite way of saying that you need to use the toilet.
It is often used in professional or public settings, such as at work, in a hotel or airport, and in other places where people may need to use the restroom.
This phrase implies that you are going to use the toilet or bathroom. It is considered a more formal and polite way of referring to the toilet, as it doesn’t refer to the act itself, but to the location where it will be done.
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‘Going To The John’
“Going to the john” is a colloquial phrase used to refer to the act of using the toilet, it is a casual and informal way of expressing the need to use the restroom.
This phrase is often used in the United States and it’s considered as a slang or informal way of referring to a toilet.
The origin of the phrase “john” as a slang term for the toilet is not entirely clear.
It is believed that it may have originated from the name of early manufacturers of toilets, such as John R. Thomas, John H. Watson, or John Dolittle, whose names appear on early toilet fixtures.
It also could have come from the practice of using the name “John” as a placeholder name for a man.
The phrase is most commonly used in informal settings and among friends. it’s a widely used and easily understood phrase.
‘Heading To The Privy’
“Heading to the privy” is a term used to refer to the toilet, it is often associated with historical or rural settings.
The word “privy” is derived from the Old French word “privez” which means private, and it was historically used to refer to a small private room or outhouse that was used as a toilet, particularly in rural areas.
It can be used to refer to outdoor toilets or toilets that are located in outbuildings, such as sheds or barns.
Hence, when you want to visit the toilet, you can simply tell your friend, colleague or relation that you are heading for the privy.
‘Dropping The Bomb’
“Dropping the bomb” is another colloquial and humorous way of saying that you need to use the toilet, particularly to have a bowel movement.
The phrase implies the idea of a powerful and sudden release, similar to the impact and destruction caused by a bomb.
‘Dropping The Bomb’ is a phrase often used among friends and in informal settings to add humor and make light of the act of using the bathroom; it is not commonly used in formal or professional settings.
‘Retiring To The Powder Room’
“Retiring to the powder room” is a phrase that is used to refer to a small room, usually in a home or public space, that is used specifically for grooming and personal hygiene, including the use of the toilet.
The term “powder room” is derived from the practice of women in the past bringing their own face powder and other toiletries with them to social events, and the room provided was specifically for them to use to freshen up, fix their hair and makeup, etc.
This phrase is often used in more formal or high-end settings and can be associated with luxury or elegance.
It’s considered a more elegant and refined way of saying that you’re going to the toilet, and it is often used in more upscale settings like high-end restaurants, hotels, or in luxurious homes.
It implies a sense of elegance, sophistication, and exclusivity.
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‘Heading To The Latrine’
“Heading to the latrine” is a term used to refer to the toilet, particularly in military settings, and can be used in a formal context.
It is usually used in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and in military environments, and refers to a portable or temporary toilet.
‘Taking The Snake Out Of The Bag’
“Taking the snake out of the cage” is a humorous and colloquial way of referring to urinating.
It’s often used in informal settings and implies the act of releasing something that is being held in or constrained, in this case, urine from the bladder.
This phrase gives the idea of a sudden release, like letting a snake out of its cage, and it’s usually used in a playful and lighthearted way.
It is mostly used among friends or family in a casual conversation, and it can also be used to add a touch of humor in a situation.
‘Going To The WC’
“Going to the WC” is an acronym for “Water Closet” which is used in some English-speaking countries as a reference to the toilet.
It is widely used and it’s a common term in the UK and other European countries, it is considered more formal than other colloquial terms.
It’s a more polite and discreet way of saying that you need to use the toilet, and it has been used in British English since the early 19th century.
It’s also an easy and direct way of reference, used in many public places like train stations, airports, and restaurants.
‘Using The Throne Room’
“Using the throne room” is a playful and humorous phrase that can be used in a lighthearted or casual setting.
This phrase is often used as a way to add humor to the conversation and is often associated with the idea of royalty or grandeur.
By using this phrase, you are implying that using the toilet is like using a grand, royal throne, giving the act a more regal and grandiose connotation.
This phrase is often used in informal or casual settings among friends or family. It can also be used in jest, or as a way to make light of a situation, such as when someone is in a hurry to use the bathroom.
It’s a way of adding a fun and lighthearted twist to the conversation and making it more relatable and entertaining.
‘Heading To The Commode’
“Heading to the commode” is an old-fashioned term used to refer to the toilet, not much in use today, but can be used to show a historical context.
The word “commode” is derived from the French word “commodité” which means convenience, or a piece of furniture with drawers and shelves.
This term was traditionally used to refer to a piece of furniture that was used as a toilet, especially in the 18th and 19th centuries. It was a piece of furniture that was mostly used in bedrooms and it was mostly found in affluent homes.
As time passed, people started to refer to the actual toilet as a commode as well, and the term has been carried over to the present day. It is considered more polite when referring to the toilet.
‘Taking A Washroom Break
“Taking a washroom break” is a Canadian term used to refer to the toilet, it is often used in Canadian workplaces, it is considered as a more polite way of saying that one is going to use the toilet.
The term “washroom” refers to a room where washing, including the use of toilets, takes place.
It’s an appropriate phrase to use in different formal and professional settings. It is also a way of showing respect to the people around you, as it is considered a more refined way of expressing the need to use the toilet.
‘Going To The Bog’
“Going to the bog” is a colloquial term that is considered informal and is often used in casual conversation.
It is a more polite way of referring to the toilet and it is more common in specific regions, like Ireland and some parts of the United Kingdom.
It originates from the word “bog” which refers to an area of soft wet ground, mostly peatland, or a mire.
It was also used to refer to outhouses that were built over these areas of soft ground, which were often used as toilets, because of their isolation and easy access to soil.
This usage has been carried over to the present day, where it is still used as a colloquial term for the toilet.
‘Using The Little Boys/Girls Room’
“Using the little boys/girls room” is a playful and child-friendly phrase that is often used when speaking to children or when referring to the children’s bathroom.
It is a term that is often used to make children feel more comfortable and familiar with the concept of using the toilet.
‘Answering Nature’s Call’
“Answering nature’s call” is a phrase that is used as a polite and euphemistic way to refer to the act of using the toilet.
It emphasizes the idea of fulfilling a natural and necessary bodily function. It is a more polite way to express the need to use the restroom, it also is less direct and less specific as compared to other phrases like “going to the bathroom”.
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Conclusion
It’s interesting to see the variety of polite ways in which people express the need to use the toilet.
From casual and colloquial phrases to more formal and discreet terminology, each expression has its own unique history and context in which it is most appropriate to use.
It’s important to be aware of the various expressions, as the way in which we talk about using the bathroom can vary widely depending on the context and culture.
This can be useful in different professional, social and cultural settings. With this in mind, I hope you’ve found this article informative and helpful in navigating the world of toilet talk.