TravelBeginner
Paying for a public restroom in English (beginner)
Beginner English for paying for a public restroom. Key line: “Can I pay by card?”
Full script
Lin
Hi, I'd like to use the restroom.
Them
Sure. It's one dollar.
Lin
Okay. Can I pay by card?
Them
Sorry, cash only.
Lin
I have coins. Is that okay?
Them
Yes. Are your feet dancing?
Lin
Maybe. They dance when I really need it.
Them
Then go fast. Nice dance, by the way.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
ask to use
✓ I'd like to use the restroom.Polite: ask to use the toilet.
Polite; more natural than 'I want'
card
✓ Can I pay by card?Ask if card is okay.
Usually no 'the' before card
cash
✓ Cash only.Only cash is accepted.
Means only cash works
coins
✓ I have coins. Is that okay?Ask if coins are okay to pay.
Useful when you only have change
Quick answers
What does “I'd like to use the restroom” mean, and when do you say it?
“I'd like to use the restroom.”: polite: ask to use the toilet. Polite; more natural than 'I want'.
What does “Can I pay by card” mean, and when do you say it?
“Can I pay by card?”: ask if card is okay. Usually no 'the' before card.
What does “Cash only” mean, and when do you say it?
“Cash only.”: only cash is accepted. Means only cash works.
What does “I have coins. Is that okay” mean, and when do you say it?
“I have coins. Is that okay?”: ask if coins are okay to pay. Useful when you only have change.