Tant pis

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French Expression

Meaning	oh well, never mind; too (damn) bad, tough
Literally	so much worse
Register	normal, informal
Pronunciation		[ta(n) pee]
IPA		[tɑ̃ pi]

Usage notes: The French expression tant pis can be used in a variety of ways with two essential meanings.

1) Fatalism

When you’re disappointed but resigned to your fate.

Par exemple…

Il n’y a plus de vin mais tant pis.		There’s no more wine but oh well. (The stores are closed)
C’est un peu cher mais tant pis.		It’s a bit expensive but never mind. (We have to buy it)

2) Accusation / Refusal

Whatever happened, it’s your own fault.

Par example…

C’est tant pis pour toi.		That’s just too damn bad for you.
– Je ne veux pas travailler aujourd’hui. – Tant pis !		– I don’t want to work today. – Tough!

 Tant pis is stronger than the neutral "too bad" and can be quite rude, so use it sparingly.

Synonyms

• C’est dommage
• C’est dur
• Dommage
• Quel dommage

 Antonym: tant mieux – good, all the better

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