Mince
/mɛ̃s/
The English phrase 'damn it' can be translated to French using Mince.
Mince is used as an expression of surprise, outrage or frustration.
Meaning: an expression of surprise, outrage, or frustration (intj)
Which one should you use?
While Mince is polite and safe for general use, Merde is the much stronger, vulgar equivalent used to express the same frustration. Additionally, Zut! is an informal way to say 'Darn it!'
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Mince is a polite, euphemistic way to express frustration, similar to saying "shoot" or "darn" in English. For a more informal approach, you can use Zut! or Merde! (which means 'Shit!').
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, Tabarnak! is an expression equivalent to 'Damn it!' In French-speaking parts of Switzerland, Sapristi! is a mild expression used to show annoyance or disappointment.
Did you know?
- In Quebec, the strongest swear words, known as sacres, are derived from Catholic liturgical objects. Tabarnak comes from the word for 'tabernacle'.
- The word mince literally means 'thin' or 'slim' in French. It is used as a polite substitute for a vulgarity because it starts with the same sound as merde.
- The expression Sapristi! used in Switzerland is a 'contraction' of the phrase 'sacré Dieu', which was once a much more powerful religious oath.
Examples in context
- Mince ! J'ai oublié mon mot de passe !Damn it! I forgot my password!This example shows the use of Mince when expressing frustration over a forgotten password.Tatoeba #11660252 by Aiji, translation #4657435 by Lazovic
- Mince.Damn it.This example shows the use of Mince as a standalone exclamation.Tatoeba #7956674 by Micsmithel, translation #6099180 by mailohilohi
- Mince, j'ai raté le bus !Damn it, I missed the bus!
Example conversation
Gabriel is trying to fix a broken toy.
- LéaTu y arrives, Gabriel ?Are you managing, Gabriel?
- GabrielNon, mince, ça ne marche pas.No, damn it, it's not working.
- LéaC'est vraiment frustrant.That is really frustrating.
- GabrielOui, je vais demander de l'aide.Yes, I am going to ask for help.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry mince.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
