Learning French: what does dommage mean and when should it be used?
An essential term for unfortunate situations
Use this word to sympathise with someone who has experienced misfortune
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Dommage is one of those everyday words that you are sure to hear if conversing with native speakers in France.
It can be used as a supportive reaction, interjection or description of an unfortunate event.
We look at how to use this handy term and suggest even more sympathetic French synonyms.
What does dommage mean?
In certain contexts, this word literally translates as ‘damage’, but it is more commonly used to indicate that something unfortunate has happened.
You will hear it as a standalone reaction, or see it used as part of everyday expressions:
Other more informal synonyms include:
Read also: Learning French: what does tant pis mean and when should it be used?
When do you say dommage?
Say this when you find yourself in an unlucky situation:
You can also use this as a sympathetic reaction to someone else's misfortune:
Statement: Je ne peux pas venir à la soirée, je suis trop malade. - I can't come to the party, I'm too ill.
Response: Mais non, quel dommage que tu ne puisses pas venir ! - No, what a pity you can’t come!
It can sometimes come across as being slightly blunt or flippant if used with a sarcastic tone of voice:
Read also: Learning French: when and why do we say pédaler dans la semoule?
To whom do you say dommage?
It is neutral language and can be used in a wide range of formal and informal situations when offering sympathy to friends and family, colleagues and clients, or even strangers.
Read also: Really speak like a local… use these French filler words
It is frequently used in both written and spoken French.
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
