baño
everyday, Costa Rica
In Costa Rica the everyday word for the bathroom is baño. Signs and formal speech often use servicio sanitario.
Meaning: room with a toilet (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| baño | everyday, Costa Rica |
| servicio sanitario | formal, Costa Rica |
To ask where it is, say ¿dónde está el baño? Adding con permiso before you pass in front of someone is a courteous habit.
Which one should you use?
Servicio sanitario is seen on signs in public buildings, restaurants and gas stations. Casual speech sticks with baño.
Did you know?
- Costa Ricans are nicknamed ticos and are known for the phrase pura vida.
Examples in context
- ¿Dónde está el baño, por favor?Where is the bathroom, please?
- El servicio sanitario está al fondo.The restroom is at the back.
- Voy al baño.I am going to the bathroom.
Example conversation
A tourist, Rachel, asks a waiter in San José.
- RachelDisculpe, ¿dónde está el baño?Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
- MeseroAl fondo, a la derecha.At the back, on the right.
- RachelPura vida, gracias.Great, thank you.
