📝 In Action
Espera un momento, necesito ir al john.
B2Wait a moment, I need to go to the john.
El john de este bar está muy sucio.
C1The john in this bar is very dirty.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender of Borrowed Words
When Spanish borrows a word from another language like English, it often gets treated as masculine. That's why people say 'el john'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using Slang in the Wrong Place
Mistake: "Using 'john' when asking for the restroom in a nice restaurant: 'Disculpe, ¿dónde está el john?'"
Correction: Use a neutral word like 'baño' or 'servicio'. 'John' is very informal slang that sounds out of place in most situations. Stick to 'Disculpe, ¿dónde está el baño?'
⭐ Usage Tips
Know Your Audience
This is a word you'd only use with friends who are familiar with American slang. Most Spanish speakers, especially outside of the Americas, won't understand what you mean. The safest bet is always to use 'baño'.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: john
Question 1 of 1
In which situation would it be most appropriate to use the word 'john'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'john' a real Spanish word?
Not in the traditional sense. It's a slang word borrowed directly from American English. The proper and universally understood Spanish word for 'bathroom' is 'baño'.
Will people in Spain understand me if I say 'john'?
Almost certainly not. This slang term is primarily used in parts of Latin America with strong U.S. influence. In Spain, common words are 'baño', 'servicio', or 'váter'.
What is the Spanish version of the name 'John'?
The equivalent name for 'John' in Spanish is 'Juan'.