Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[nawee]

Hello,

1. When we talk about public toilets, do we have to use the plural form in BrE?
E.g.
Excuse me, do you know where the (ladies) toilets are?

2. Is there a difference in register between "toilet" and "loo" in BrE?
E.g.
Can I use the loo/toilet?

3. Would an American understand the word "loo"?

4. I spent a year in the Philippines and there they use the term "CR" or "comfort room" for a "toilet". Is that term used or understood anywhere else?

5. Is there any other term we use to call a "toilet"?

Thank you,

Nawee

[CP]

From what I've seen, "toilet" is understood in Asia, Europe, and Australia. It is understood but less commonly used in the U.S.

I've heard "loo" but I don't think many Americans have, and I'm not sure I'd use it outside the U.K. I think "bog" is also a slang term for toilet in the U.K.

"W.C." (for "water closet," a term from the Victorian era) is widely known in Europe to mean public toilet. It's not used in the U.S.

In the U.S., we may say restroom, men's room / ladies' room, wash room, lavatory, lounge, or even bathroom or the facilities to refer to a public toilet. In a restaurant, just standing up and starting to walk aimlessly will usually work to get directions to the -- you know, the powder room.
_________________
You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[nawee]

How is W.C. pronounced?

Thanks,

Nawee

[CP]

In English, "double-yoo see." In German, "Vay tsay." In French, "Doobl' vay say."
_________________
You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb