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"Lavabo" is a noun which is often translated as "sink", and "retrete" is a noun which is often translated as "toilet". Learn more about the difference between "lavabo" and "retrete" below.
el lavabo(
lah
-
bah
-
boh
)
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
masculine noun
a. sink
En el baño hay un inodoro, un lavabo y un espejo.In the bathroom there is a toilet, a sink, and a mirror.
b. washbasin
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
Sugiero que hagas tu camino hacia el lavabo para lavarte las manos.I suggest you make your way over to the washbasin to wash your hands.
a. bathroom
Regionalism used in the United States
(United States)
El lavabo está alrededor de la esquina y a la derecha.The bathroom is around the corner and to the right.
b. restroom
Regionalism used in the United States
(United States)
Señorita, ¿puedo ir al lavabo?Miss, may I go to the restroom?
c. toilet
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
Perdón, tengo que ir al lavabo un momento.Excuse me, I need to pop to the toilet.
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el retrete(
rreh
-
treh
-
teh
)
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
masculine noun
a. toilet
Los nuevos retretes usan menos agua.New toilets use less water.
b. lavatory
Esta escobilla se usa para lavar el retrete.This brush is for cleaning the lavatory.
a. bathroom
Regionalism used in the United States
(United States)
¿Sabes dónde está el retrete?Do you know where the bathroom is?
b. restroom
Regionalism used in the United States
(United States)
Le pedí permiso a la maestra de ir al retrete.I asked the teacher for permission to go to the restroom.
c. toilet
Regionalism used in the United Kingdom
(United Kingdom)
Hay otro retrete en la recámara principal.There's another toilet off the master bedroom.
Copyright © 2025 Dictionary Media Group, Inc.