Learning French: what does comme par hasard mean and when should it be used?
A sarcastic saying to describe something unsurprising or coincidental
Discover the dice-related origins behind this French expression
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English speakers, particularly ‘Brits’, are known for their unique sense of humour streaked with tongue-in-cheek satire and banter.
This use of irony can sometimes get lost in translation when conversing with the French, however some hints of sarcasm can appear from time to time.
We look at how and when to use comme par hasard and explore the interesting origins behind it.
What does comme par hasard mean?
This common expression literally translates as: as if by chance.
French people most often use this sarcastically to imply that something obvious, predictable or ironically unlucky has happened.
It is similar to the following English sayings:
Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say faire contre mauvaise fortune bon cœur?
What are the origins of comme par hasard?
The origins behind the word hasard are believed to stem from the Spanish azar (an unfortunate roll of the dice) or from the Arabic al-zahr (pronounced az-zahr), meaning: dice.
This became hazard, or hasard, which was adopted into the French language in the 1100s to mean: a game of dice.
In English, hazard has a slightly different definition (referring to something dangerous that can cause damage), however the root of the word remains the same and originally alluded to the risk of gambling losses in a dice game.
Read also: Learning French: the origins and meaning of avoir du bol
Rolling a standard dice leads to a ‘random’ number from one to six. There is a certain level of chance or luck behind which face lands upright.
This links to the modern expression, comme par hasard, which uses sarcasm to imply the opposite meaning - that luck or coincidence played no role in influencing a particular outcome.
When do you say comme par hasard?
Say this when something obvious or unsurprising happens:
Au moment de faire la vaisselle, mon frère a toujours besoin d'aller aux toilettes, comme par hasard. - Whenever it is time to wash the dishes my brother always leaves to go to the toilet, surprise surprise.
It can also imply that a particular event is ‘typical,’ unlucky or coincidental:
Aujourd'hui, c'est le seul jour où j'oublie mon parapluie, comme par hasard, il pleut. - Today is the one day that I forgot my umbrella, and just my luck, it is raining.
Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say avoir la poisse?
To whom do you say comme par hasard?
It is neutral language and can be used in a range of formal and informal situations: with friends, family, or strangers.
It is worth nothing that the phrase can come across as a sarcastic criticism or playful tease depending on your tone of voice.
If you would like us to explain a particular word or expression, or if you have any other Learning French suggestions, let us know at: feedback@connexionfrance.com
