Word
facilities
Phoneticsfa·cil·i·ties, stress on the second syllable
US/fəˈsɪɫətiz/
UK/fəsˈɪlɪtiz/
Definitions
01amenities or equipment
B1 · Intermediate Plural noun
n. the buildings, equipment, or services that are provided for a specific purpose.
n. the physical infrastructure, equipment, or services provided to facilitate a particular activity or function.
“The hotel has excellent sports facilities, including a gym and a large swimming pool.”
“The university invested millions in upgrading its research facilities to attract top-tier scientists from around the globe.”
Usage
Always used in the plural form in this sense.
Synonyms
02toilets
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun Formal
n. a polite or formal way to say 'toilets' or 'restroom'.
n. a euphemistic plural used to refer to lavatory or restroom amenities in public or professional settings.
“Excuse me, could you tell me where I can find the facilities?”
“Before we begin the three-hour seminar, I will give everyone a few minutes to use the facilities and grab a coffee.”
Usage
Commonly used in the phrase 'use the facilities'.
Teaching tip
This is a very common euphemism in professional or polite social situations where saying 'toilet' might feel too direct.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/facilities