What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Posso (I can/may), usar (to use), o (the) and banheiro (bathroom/toilet).
Which one should you use?
While usar o banheiro (use the bathroom) is correct, ir ao banheiro (go to the bathroom) is a very common alternative used in both formal and informal settings.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Portugal, you can say Posso ir à casa de banho? to mean "Can I go to the bathroom?" In Brazilian Portuguese, one can say Ei, posso dar uma passada no banheiro? to mean "Hey, can I quickly pop into the bathroom?"
How does it change in a sentence?
To turn the question into a statement, simply remove the question mark and use a falling intonation: Posso usar o banheiro.
When do people say it?
A common and natural way to grant permission is to say Pode sim (You can indeed) or Claro (Of course).
Did you know?
- The Brazilian expression dar uma passada in posso dar uma passada no banheiro? literally means 'to give a pass'.
- While Posso usar o banheiro? is polite, Brazilians often use the word lavabo to refer specifically to a half-bath or powder room for guests.
- In very formal Brazilian settings, people may avoid the word banheiro entirely and ask for the toalete to sound more discreet.
Examples in context
- Posso usar o banheiro?Can I use the bathroom?Tatoeba #2626493 by alexmarcelo, translation #3327808 by CK
- Poderia me permitir usar o banheiro?Could you permit me to use the bathroom?
- Posso ir ao banheiro?Can I go to the bathroom?
- Posso usar o banheiro aí?Can I use the bathroom there?
- Com licença, posso usar o banheiro?Excuse me, can I use the bathroom?
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
At a friend's house, Juliana is visiting Lucas.
- JulianaLucas, posso usar o banheiro?Lucas, can I use the bathroom?
- LucasClaro, pode usar.Of course, you can.
- JulianaObrigada, você é muito gentil.Thank you, you are very kind.
- LucasNão tem de quê.You're welcome.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
