Devo andare in bagno
In Italian, "I have to go to the bathroom" is expressed as Devo andare in bagno.
This phrase is used to state that you need to use the toilet.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of devo (I must/I have to), andare (to go), in (in/to) and bagno (bathroom).
Which one should you use?
While Devo andare in bagno is a standard way to express the need, you can also use Vorrei andare in bagno if you want to sound more indirect.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Devo andare in bagno is a standard, polite way to express the need to use the restroom in most social settings. If you want to be even more polite or indirect, especially in a restaurant or a formal setting, use Vorrei andare in bagno.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb andare (to go) is used in its infinitive form because it follows the conjugated modal verb devo.
Did you know?
- The word bagno also refers to a 'dip' in the sea or a pool, such as fare un bagno, which means 'to go for a swim'.
- In very formal settings, Italians may avoid mentioning the bathroom entirely and instead ask Posso scusarmi un momento?, meaning 'May I excuse myself for a moment?'
- In Italy, if you are in a cafe or restaurant, you might see a sign for WC. This English acronym is used more frequently in writing than the word bagno.
Examples in context
- Mi scusi, devo andare in bagno.Excuse me, I have to go to the bathroom.
- Scusa, devo andare in bagno.Sorry, I have to go to the bathroom.
- Devo andare in bagno subito.I have to go to the bathroom right now.
Example conversation
At a restaurant during a dinner.
- MartinaMatteo, scusa, devo andare in bagno.Matteo, excuse me, I have to go to the bathroom.
- MatteoVa bene, Martina, torna subito.It's okay, Martina, come back soon.
- MartinaSì, non ci metto molto.Yes, I won't be long.
- MatteoPerfetto, ti aspetto qui.Perfect, I'll wait for you here.
