oh merde
The English phrase "oh crap" is expressed in French as oh merde.
Oh là là is a versatile expression used to convey surprise, dismay or disappointment. The expression Je suis dans de beaux draps literally means "I'm in beautiful sheets" and is used to convey being in a difficult or tricky situation.
Which one should you use?
If you want to express a similar frustration without being vulgar, use Mince ! instead of oh merde. The word Zut is a milder and more socially acceptable alternative to "oh crap" used for minor inconveniences or mistakes.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
oh merde is informal and contains a swear word, so it should not be used in formal settings.
Did you know?
- While oh merde is a common way to express frustration, if you use the word merde to describe a person's performance, like a play or a concert, you are actually wishing them good luck.
- While Zut is a mild exclamation, it is often paired with alors to form Zut alors, which sounds old-fashioned or comical to many modern French speakers.
- The word Mince literally means 'thin', but it is used as a polite substitute for merde to avoid saying the swear word.
Examples in context
- Je suis dans de beaux draps, j'ai perdu mon passeport.I'm in a tight spot, I lost my passport.
- Merde, je vais rater mon train!Oh crap, I'm going to miss my train!
- Zut, j'ai oublié d'acheter le lait.Oops, I forgot to buy the milk.
- Mince, j'ai oublié d'appeler ma mère.Oh darn, I forgot to call my mother.
- Oh merde, j'ai oublié mes clés.Oh crap, I forgot my keys.
- Oh merde, le train est déjà parti.Oh crap, the train has already left.
- Oh merde, j'ai cassé mon téléphone.Oh crap, I broke my phone.
Example conversation
Gabriel realizes he lost his wallet in the cafe.
- ManonTu as trouvé ton portefeuille, Gabriel ?Did you find your wallet, Gabriel?
- GabrielOh merde, je ne l'ai plus.Oh crap, I don't have it anymore.
- ManonTu es sûr de toi ?Are you sure?
- GabrielOui, il a dû rester sur la table.Yes, it must have stayed on the table.
