The meaning of the « WC » sign outside the restroom

Good question! It all depends on the country and customs:

  • In France, we often say  « toilets »  or « WC »
  • In England, it’s more like  « loo »  or  « lavatory »
  • In the United States, we prefer  « restroom »  or  « bathroom »
  • In Spain, we will say  “aseos”
  • And in Germany,  « Toilet »  or  « WC »

Every language has its own peculiarities… and its own little quirks. In fact, some Internet users point out the irony of the term « bathroom » being used to refer to a room that doesn’t  always contain a bathtub.

An anecdote that makes you smile

A Canadian couple recently shared a viral video on TikTok: while visiting the United States, they ask where the  « restroom » is … and are directed to  a laundromat  ! A funny mix-up, it’s a reminder that even the simplest words can be confusing from one country to another.

One room, a thousand names

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