use the restroom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use the restroom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in both formal and informal contexts when referring to the act of going to the bathroom. Example: "Excuse me, I need to use the restroom before we continue with the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some players use the restroom.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Dubose asked to use the restroom.

The New York Times

I panic and ask if I can use the restroom.

The New Yorker

Last chance: Anyone need to use the restroom?

The New York Times

"We would ask permission to use the restroom.

The Guardian

A woman asked to use the restroom and Mr. Curtis told her about the fee.

The New York Times

When his friend went to use the restroom, Mr. Berenberg finally spoke up.

The New York Times

And, of course, also to use the restroom and get a drink.

The New York Times - Sports

There was a guy sitting in the window seat who got up to use the restroom.

The New York Times

It means taking weapons with you when you eat or use the restroom.

The New York Times

Dominick Dunne would make sure his seat was saved before excusing himself to use the restroom.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing for an international audience, "use the restroom" is preferable over regional alternatives like "use the john" or "use the loo".

Common error

While "use the restroom" is a polite way to express the need to urinate or defecate, avoid excessive euphemisms in formal writing. Direct language is often clearer and more professional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use the restroom" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of going to the toilet for urination or defecation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely understood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "use the restroom" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression for indicating the need to urinate or defecate. Ludwig confirms its correctness and wide applicability. It maintains a neutral register, suitable for various settings, and enjoys widespread usage across news media and general communication. While alternative phrases like "go to the bathroom" or "relieve oneself" exist, "use the restroom" strikes a balance between politeness and clarity, making it a reliable choice in most situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go to the bathroom

A more general and common alternative.

use the bathroom

A slightly less formal variant.

go to the lavatory

A more formal and less common term.

relieve oneself

A euphemistic and somewhat formal option.

answer nature's call

An idiomatic and indirect way to express the need.

visit the little boys'/girls' room

A childish and gendered phrase.

go pee

An informal and direct way to say urinate.

go poo

An informal and direct way to say defecate.

take a leak

A slang and informal way to say urinate.

empty my bladder

A clinical and direct way to express the need to urinate.

FAQs

What is a more formal alternative to "use the restroom"?

A more formal alternative is "go to the lavatory" or "relieve oneself", although the latter is more euphemistic.

What's the difference between "use the restroom" and "use the bathroom"?

The phrases "use the restroom" and "use the bathroom" are largely interchangeable in American English. "Restroom" is more common in public places, while "bathroom" is common in private residences.

How can I politely ask to "use the restroom" in a formal setting?

In a formal setting, you can politely say, "Excuse me, I need to "use the restroom"", or "May I be excused to "use the restroom", please?"

What are some informal ways to say "use the restroom"?

Informal ways to say ""use the restroom"" include "go to the bathroom", "go pee", or "go poo" (the last two being very informal and childish).