merde
sh*t / damn / break a leg
Beginner Interjection
🔊
Pronunciation
/mɛʁd/
💡
Cultural Note
The first French swear word every tourist learns. Beyond its obvious meaning, 'merde' has a beautiful secondary function: it means 'good luck.' Before exams, performances, or job interviews, French people say 'merde!' the way English speakers say 'break a leg.' Saying 'bonne chance' (good luck) is actually considered bad luck in theater. So in France, wishing someone excrement is the polite thing to do. Cambronne allegedly yelled it at Waterloo, making it a patriotic duty.
📝 Example Sentences
Merde, j'ai oublié mon portefeuille !
Sh*t, I forgot my wallet!
Tu passes un exam demain ? Merde !
You have an exam tomorrow? Break a leg!