“Tant pis” and “tant mieux”, 2 most useful everyday French expressions

I have 2 fun and useful expressions for you in this lesson. They pop up in conversation ever so often. Literally, they are used for better and worse, they are the yin and the yang…

Let’s pick at them a bit so you too will say them as often as possible, in the right context, and upgrade your spoken French.

 How and when do you use the French expression of “TANT PIS”?

To start with, you should ignore the final letter for both words: “tan pi”. Besides, if you pronounce the “t” in “tant”, people would think you are talking about your aunt (tante) and if you say the “s” and pronounce “pissss”, you would refer to the verb “pisser” meaning to pee!

That said, the French expression “tant pis” could be a synonym of “c’est la vie !” when you accept a situation where there’s nothing you can do. Basically, the situation isn’t ideal but you stay positive because you move on.

Here’s how you could use it:

• “Je n’ai pas eu le poste. Tant pis, ce serait pour la prochaine!” >>> I didn’t get the position. Never mind, I’ll get the next one!

“TANT PIS” to express your acception about the situation.

Let’s see other examples:

• “J’ai oublié d’acheter un gâteau, mais tant pis,,on en a assez.” >>> I forgot to buy another cake, but never mind, we’ve got enough. 

• “Si vous ne venez pas, tant pis pour vous” >>> If you don’t come, that’s your problem though: you miss out.

What does “TANT MIEUX” mean in French?

Unlike, “tant pis”, the expression “tant mieux” is positive. It's good to use to celebrate a win. It’s the translation of “all the better” or “it’s just as well”.

“TANT MIEUX” to show genuine happiness.

 Not sure how to put it in the right way? Here are some examples for you:

• “On a tout fini au travail. Tant mieux, on peut se reposer maintenant.” >>> We’ve finished everything at work. Great! (all the better), we can relax now.

• “J’ai trouvé un nouvel emploi près de la maison !” “Tant mieux pour toi !” >>> I’ve found a new job near my house ! That’s great! Good for you!

“TANT PIS” or “TANT MIEUX”: Which one to pick?

Now, you know! There are 2 fun expressions you can pick: “tant pis” for regrettable situations and “tant mieux” to celebrate a victory. By the way, the word “pis” is the old version of “pire” meaning worse. And the opposite is “mieux” which is “better” in English…

This tip will help you decide which one to choose and distinguish them.

• TANT PIS  >>> Never mind, tough!, oh well, Hey no!
• TANT MIEUX  >>> that’s a good thing!, all the better!, it’s just as well

If you’ve learned something in this lesson, “tant mieux”! If not, “tant pis”, you will in the other lessons we have in store for you!

Any questions, feel free to contact me so I can help.