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How to Say ‘Oh no.’ in French

Ah mince.

ah manss

[ah manss]

🇫🇷 In France: [Ah mince.] is a mild, everyday reaction — natural with a tenant, landlord, or plumber. It sounds softer and more polite than a stronger exclamation.

Phrase Breakdown

Ah

[ah]

ah

An interjection showing reaction or surprise.

Example

Ah mince. Le plombier ne peut pas venir avant demain.

Oh no. The plumber can't come before tomorrow.

mince

[manss]

oh no / darn

A mild informal exclamation expressing disappointment or annoyance.

Example

Ah mince. L'eau chaude est encore en panne.

Oh no. The hot water is broken again.

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