loos: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, colloquial (especially British English)
Quick answer
What does “loos” mean?
Toilets (British English).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Toilets (British English); a plural of 'loo', meaning informal public toilet facilities.
Informal British term for public restrooms or bathrooms, often implying basic facilities found in places like pubs, stations, or parks. May also be used in domestic contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Exclusively British. In American English, the term 'loo(s)' is rarely used and would likely not be understood. Americans say 'restrooms', 'bathrooms', or 'toilets'.
Connotations
In British English, it is informal but not vulgar or slang; it is widely used and acceptable in most casual contexts. Can sound slightly dated to younger speakers. 'Public loos' carries a connotation of often being basic, unattended, or not particularly clean.
Frequency
Common in spoken British English. 'Toilets' is more formal and neutral, while 'lavatory' is very formal. 'Loo' is more frequent than the plural 'loos'.
Grammar
How to Use “loos” in a Sentence
The [ADJ] loos are [LOCATION]There are no public loos [LOCATION]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Almost never used.
Academic
Almost never used.
Everyday
Common in casual British conversation, e.g., 'Where are the loos?' when at a pub or event.
Technical
Not used in plumbing or architectural contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “loos”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “loos”
- Using 'loos' in American contexts.
- Misspelling as 'loose' or 'lose'.
- Using it in formal written English.
- Thinking it refers to a single toilet bowl.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is plural. The singular is 'loo'.
No, it is an informal, colloquial term. Use 'toilets', 'restrooms', or 'lavatories' in formal contexts.
Generally, no. It is a specifically British English term. An American would likely say 'restrooms' or 'bathrooms'.
'Loos' is informal and specifically British. 'Toilets' is the standard, neutral term in British English and can be used in slightly more formal situations.
Toilets (British English).
Loos: in British English it is pronounced /luːz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Loose change' you might need for a public 'loos'. The 's' sounds the same.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTAINER FOR NECESSITY (A necessary, functional container or space).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is the word 'loos' commonly used and understood?