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PhrasesAt the Petrol StationPosso usare la toilette?
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Posso usare la toilette?

Can I use the toilet?

Pronunciation

twa-LET-te — French loanword, stress on second syllable

When to use it

When you need to use the facilities at a petrol station.

What it means

'Toilette' is the most common word for a public bathroom in Italy, also called 'bagno' or 'servizi'. Petrol station toilets often require a purchase or a key from the attendant.

Variations

Dove sono i servizi?

Where are the facilities?

More formal term

Il bagno e libero?

Is the bathroom free?

Checking if occupied

Ho bisogno di una chiave per il bagno?

Do I need a key for the bathroom?

Asking about key requirement

Mini Dialogue

Posso usare la toilette? — Certo, eccole la chiave. E in fondo al corridoio a destra.

Can I use the toilet? — Of course, here is the key. It is at the end of the corridor on the right.

Cultural Note

In Italy, it is common courtesy to make a small purchase (a coffee or snack) if you use the bathroom at a petrol station bar. This is expected but not always enforced.