How to Say “Holy Moly” in French

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mince alors
The English phrase 'holy moly' can be translated into French as mince alors.
The phrase mince alors is used to express mild surprise, realization or slight frustration. Other ways to convey astonishment or surprise include the informal Oh là là ! or the informal expression Ça alors !, which carries the sense of 'Well, I never!'

What does it mean word for word?

The word mince literally means 'small', 'thin' or 'slight'. The phrase functions as a euphemism to avoid more vulgar exclamations.

Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?

Mince alors is a polite, mild exclamation suitable for use in mixed company or around children. It serves as a much softer and more socially acceptable alternative to the vulgar word merde when expressing surprise.

Did you know?

  • The word mince shares a root with the English culinary term 'mince', as both derive from the Old French term for making something smaller.
  • The phrase mince alors can be used to express not just surprise, but also a sudden realization of a mistake, similar to saying 'Oh shoot!' in English.

Examples in context

  • Mince alors, c'est énorme !
    Holy moly, it's huge!
  • Mince alors, tu as gagné ?
    Holy moly, you won?
  • Mince alors, quel beau paysage !
    Holy moly, what a beautiful landscape!

Example conversation

Chloé shows Gabriel a very expensive ring she just bought.

  1. Gabriel

    Mince alors, elle est magnifique !
    Holy moly, it is magnificent!
  2. Chloé

    Merci, elle coûte très cher.
    Thank you, it is very expensive.
  3. Gabriel

    Tu as osé l'acheter ?
    You dared to buy it?
  4. Chloé

    Oui, je voulais me faire plaisir.
    Yes, I wanted to treat myself.

Sources

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Beth Elizabeth
Beth ElizabethHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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