我可以去洗手间吗
wǒ kěyǐ qù xǐshǒujiān ma
The English phrase "can I go to the restroom" is translated into Chinese as 我可以去洗手间吗 (wǒ kěyǐ qù xǐshǒujiān ma).
This phrase is a polite request used to ask for permission to use the toilet.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase 我可以去洗手间吗 literally translates to "I can go wash hand room [question particle]".
How does it change in a sentence?
The particle 吗 is added to the end of a declarative statement to turn it into a yes/no question.
How do you pronounce it?
wǒ kěyǐ qù xǐshǒujiān ma
Did you know?
- To be even more indirect and polite, some speakers avoid the word 'restroom' entirely and ask 我想出去一下, which means 'I want to go out for a moment'.
- In casual digital messaging, Chinese speakers sometimes use the character 蹲, which means 'to squat', as a slang verb to indicate they are using the restroom.
- In mainland China, you will frequently see the term 卫生间 on official signage, which literally translates to 'hygiene room' rather than 'wash hand room'.
Examples in context
- 请问，我可以去洗手间吗？Excuse me, may I go to the restroom?
- 老师，我可以去洗手间吗？Lǎoshī, wǒ kěyǐ qù xǐshǒujiān ma?Teacher, can I go to the restroom?
- 不好意思，我可以去洗手间吗？Bù hǎoyìsi, wǒ kěyǐ qù xǐshǒujiān ma?Excuse me, can I go to the restroom?
Example conversation
During a meeting at the office.
- 志强 Zhiqiang梓涵，我可以去洗手间吗？Zǐhán, wǒ kěyǐ qù xǐshǒujiān ma?Zihan, can I go to the restroom?
- 梓涵 Zihan可以，就在走廊那边。Kěyǐ, jiù zài zǒuláng nà biān.Yes, it's just down the hallway.
- 志强 Zhiqiang谢谢你。Xièxiè nǐ.Thank you.
- 梓涵 Zihan不客气。Bù kèqì.You're welcome.
