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How to Say ‘Oh dear!’ in French

Oh là là !

oh lah lah

[oh lah lah]

💬 Usage Tip: A classic French reaction. Depending on tone, it can mean wow, oh no, no way, or amazing. Perfect after a dramatic World Cup 2026 goal.

🇫🇷 In France: This is one of the most famous French expressions worldwide, and yes, real people in France really say it.

Phrase Breakdown

Oh

[oh]

oh

An opening exclamation showing immediate emotion or surprise.

Example

Oh, là là, quel retourné !

Oh, wow, what a bicycle kick!

[lah]

wow

The repeated là increases the emotional force of the expression oh là là.

Example

Après ce but, tout le monde répète là là avec surprise.

After that goal, everyone repeats wow wow in surprise.

[lah]

wow

The repeated là increases the emotional force of the expression oh là là.

Example

Après ce but, tout le monde répète là là avec surprise.

After that goal, everyone repeats wow wow in surprise.

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