What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Hol van a mosdó? is composed of Hol (where), van (is), a (the) and mosdó (bathroom/washroom).
Which one should you use?
While Hol van a mosdó? is a standard way to ask, Hol van a WC? is a very common alternative used in Hungary. For a more indirect and even more polite approach, you can use Hol tudnám megtudni a mosdó helyét? (Where could I find the location of the bathroom?) or more complex sentences like El tudná mondani, hol találom a mosdót? (Could you tell me where I can find the restroom?) and Lenne szíves megmondani, hol találom a mosdót? (Would you be so kind as to tell me where I can find the restroom?).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Hol van a mosdó? is a common formal way to ask for the bathroom. In contrast, Hol van a vécé? is a common informal way to ask. The word vécé itself is a colloquial term for bathroom.
Did you know?
- In Hungary, you will often see signs for the toilet marked as WC, and the colloquial word vécé is simply the phonetic pronunciation of those letters.
- Hungarian distinguishes between a room where you wash mosdó and the actual toilet WC. Depending on the building, asking for a mosdó might lead you to a sink area without a toilet.
- The word van is cognate with the Finnish word olla and the Estonian word olema, both of which also mean 'to be'.
Examples in context
- Bocsánat, hol van a mosdó?Sorry, where is the bathroom?
Example conversation
Katalin and László are at a restaurant.
- KatalinLászló, hol van a mosdó?László, where is the bathroom?
- LászlóA mosdó ott van a folyosón.The bathroom is there in the hallway.
- KatalinKöszönöm szépen!Thank you very much!
- LászlóSzívesen, Katalin!You're welcome, Katalin!
