What does "facilities" mean?

1. (amenities or equipment) the buildings, equipment, or services that are provided for a specific purpose. 2. (toilets) a polite or formal way to say 'toilets' or 'restroom'.

How do you use "facilities"?

Always used in the plural form in this sense. Commonly used in the phrase 'use the facilities'.

facilities

US //fəˈsɪɫətiz// UK //fəsˈɪlɪtiz// fa·cil·i·ties

1 amenities or equipment (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the buildings, equipment, or services that are provided for a specific purpose.

the physical infrastructure, equipment, or services provided to facilitate a particular activity or function.

Example

The hotel has excellent sports facilities, including a gym and a large swimming pool.

Example

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.
2 toilets (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

a polite or formal way to say 'toilets' or 'restroom'.

a euphemistic plural used to refer to lavatory or restroom amenities in public or professional settings.

Example

Excuse me, could you tell me where I can find the facilities?

Example

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'.

Teacher's tip

This is a very common euphemism in professional or polite social situations where saying 'toilet' might feel too direct.