Published May 22, 2024 • Updated April 25, 2026 — By French teacher David Issokson • Native Audio by Marie Assel Cambier
Oh là là is one of the most famous French expressions in the world, but many learners still do not know how French people really use it. In everyday French, it can express surprise, admiration, frustration, or disbelief depending on tone. Listen to Marie’s audio examples and hear how oh là là sounds in real life.
📘 Oh là là meaning
Oh là là is a French expression used to react to surprise, admiration, or frustration. Its meaning depends entirely on tone and context. Depending on how it’s said, it can mean “oh wow,” “oh no,” “oh dear,” or even “yikes!” It’s far more versatile (and less flirty!) than many English speakers assume.
🎧 Oh là là pronunciation
The pronunciation of oh là là is /o la la/ (IPA), which sounds roughly like “oh lah lah.”
📝 Oh là là examples
1) Awe or amazement
Oh là là, c’est beau !
Oh wow, it’s beautiful.
2) Excitement or delight
Oh là là, ce gâteau a l’air délicieux.
Oh wow! That cake looks delicious.
3) Admiration or strong emotion
Oh là là, cette chanson est trop belle !
Oh wow, this song is so beautiful!
4) Surprise or shock
Oh là là, t‘as vu ce prix ?
Oh wow, did you see that price?
5) Frustration or forgetfulness
Oh là là, j’ai encore oublié mes clés.
Oh no, I forgot my keys again.
6) Tiredness or feeling overwhelmed
Oh là là, je suis fatigué ce soir.
Oh man, I’m tired tonight.
7) Regret or disbelief
Oh là là, j’ai dépensé autant hier soir ?
Oh no, I spent that much last night?
8) Annoyance or repetition
Oh là là, pas encore.
Yikes, not again.
Curious about another French word used all the time in English?
👉 See also: How the French use “Voilà” »
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Relate words & expressions
- Ah bon ? – Really?
- Mince ! – Oh no!
- Ouf ! – Phew!
- Aïe ! – Ouch!
- Houlà ! – Whoa!
- Mon dieu ! – My God!
- Quelle horreur ! – How awful!
- C’est pas vrai ! – No way!
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