When you need to go to the bathroom, English offers many colorful and polite expressions besides just saying “I need to use the toilet.” Whether you’re in a casual chat, a work meeting, or a social event, choosing the right phrase can help you sound more natural, polite, or even humorous.

Below are  different ways to say you need the toilet, along with what they typically mean:

Common Expressions:

1. I gotta pee
   A casual, direct way to say you need to urinate.
2. I'm gonna use the john
   “John” is a slang term for toilet (mainly American English).
3. I need to take a leak
   Informal and a bit crude; used mainly among close friends.
4. Nature calls
   A humorous and polite way of saying you need the bathroom.
5. Gotta hit the loo
   “Loo” is British slang for the toilet.
6. I gotta use the bathroom
   Polite and neutral — good for everyday use.
7. Bathroom break, be right back
   Often used in workplaces or during meetings.
8. I’m off to the toilet
   Direct and polite; more common in UK English.
9. I've got to take a break
   Vague but can imply you’re stepping away for the restroom.
10. Mind if I step away?
    Subtle and polite — great for formal settings.
11. I have to run to the restroom
    Common in American English, often used in public spaces.