What does “Spend a penny” mean?
The phrase "spend a penny" means 'to go to the bathroom, especially to urinate' in British slang. It originated from public toilets that would require payment of one penny for use.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
Excuse me, I need to spend a penny; I'll be right back.
Example
She rushed to spend a penny during the intermission of the play.
Example
It's a long road trip; we'll need to spend a penny at the next rest stop.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Informing others about the need to use the restroom
Excuse me, I need to spend a penny; I'll be right back.
She rushed to spend a penny during the intermission of the play.
- 2Referring to the need to use the bathroom during a journey or trip
It's a long road trip; we'll need to spend a penny at the next rest stop.
I'll be right back, I just need to spend a penny before we continue hiking.
- 3Discussing the cost or availability of public restrooms
In some countries, you have to pay to spend a penny in public restrooms.
Finding a free place to spend a penny in the city can be a challenge.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "spend a penny" originated from public toilets in the UK that used to charge one penny for use. It was a polite way to refer to the need to use the restroom.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "spend a penny" is typically used within a sentence to convey the need to use the bathroom. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "spend a penny" is not offensive. It is a British euphemism for going to the bathroom, specifically to urinate.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "spend a penny" is primarily used in the UK and is familiar to British English speakers. It is commonly understood by people in the UK and those familiar with British slang.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "spend a penny" is specific to the UK and is not commonly used in other English-speaking regions.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- use the restroom
- go to the bathroom
- relieve oneself
- take a bathroom break
- answer the call of nature
Antonyms
- hold it in
- delay going to the bathroom
- avoid using the restroom
- refrain from urinating
- ignore the urge to pee
