merde !
The English phrase "break a leg" is translated into French as merde ! Wiktionary also lists je te dis merde ! and bonne merde.
Meaning: expression of best wishes to a performer (intj)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA |
|---|---|
| merde ! | |
| je te dis merde ! | |
| bonne merde | /bɔn mɛʁd/ |
In French, merde ! is used to wish someone good luck, particularly in an informal setting. While it literally translates to "shit!", it serves the same purpose as the English theatrical expression.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Because it uses a swear word, merde ! is informal. You should avoid using this expression in formal or professional settings, unless you are within the specific context of the performing arts.
When do people say it?
Similar to the English "break a leg", French theater culture considers saying bonne chance (good luck) to be bad luck for a performer.
Did you know?
- The origin of merde ! likely traces back to the era of horse-drawn carriages, when a large number of horse droppings outside a theater entrance signaled a successful, crowded performance.
- While merde is a swear word, it is common for French performers to avoid replying with 'thank you' when told this, as doing so might negate the luck.
- French speakers may use merde to wish luck for an exam or a job interview, moving the superstition from the stage into everyday high-pressure situations.
Examples in context
- Merde !Break a leg!This example shows the use of merde ! to express the sentiment of "break a leg".Tatoeba #482241 by sacredceltic, translation #2795777 by sundown
- Merde ! Pour ton spectacle ce soir.Break a leg! For your show tonight.
Example conversation
Léa is about to go on stage for a play.
- NathanTu es prête pour la pièce ?Are you ready for the play?
- LéaOui, je suis un peu nerveuse.Yes, I am a little nervous.
- NathanNe t'inquiète pas, merde !Don't worry, break a leg!
- LéaMerci Nathan, c'est gentil.Thanks Nathan, that's kind.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “break a leg” translations and entries bonne merde, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
