Which one should you use?
The phrase Darf ich auf die Toilette gehen? is the standard way to ask for permission. If you are not seeking permission but simply need to locate the facility, you should instead use Wo ist die Toilette? (Where is the toilet?).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In formal contexts, you can use Kann ich bitte die Toilette benutzen? (Can I please use the toilet?), Dürfte ich bitte auf die Toilette gehen? (May I please go to the toilet?) or the even more formal Könnte ich bitte die Toilette aufsuchen? (Could I please seek out the toilet?). In informal settings, such as among friends, you might say Kann ich bitte aufs Klo gehen? or Kann ich bitte mal aufs WC? You can also use the colloquial term Klo for toilet. For a very casual request where you want to sound less formal, you can omit the verb "gehen" and use Darf ich mal kurz auf die Toilette?, which means "May I quickly use the restroom?"
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using Kann ich auf die Toilette gehen? if you want to be strictly grammatically correct when asking for permission. Instead, use Darf ich… to express that you are asking if you are allowed to go.
Did you know?
- Asking to go auf die Toilette literally translates to going 'onto' the toilet, rather than 'into' the bathroom.
- The word Klo is a shortened, colloquial version of Abtritt or Wasserklosett, making it the equivalent of saying 'loo' or 'john' in English.
- The word Toilette in the phrase is actually a borrowed word from French, dating back to around 1700.
Examples in context
- Entschuldigen Sie bitte, kann ich die Toilette benutzen?Excuse me please, can I use the toilet?
- Entschuldigung, darf ich auf die Toilette gehen?Excuse me, can I go to the bathroom?
Example conversation
Laura and Lukas are at a dinner party.
- LauraDarf ich auf die Toilette gehen?Can I go to the bathroom?
- LukasJa, natürlich, Laura.Yes, of course, Laura.
- LauraDanke schön.Thank you very much.
- LukasGerne.You're welcome.
