Meaning of French mon dieu in English

Mon dieu

My God

Mon dieu, c’est une catastrophe! My god, this is a disaster!
Mon dieu, regarde ce prix-là! My god, look at that price!
Mon dieu, tu es trempé! My god, you’re soaked!
Mais qu’as-tu fait, mon dieu? But what have you done, my god?
Non, mon dieu, dis-moi que c’est faux! No, my god, tell me it’s not true!

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More about mon dieu

The French phrase mon dieu translates to “my God” in English. It’s an exclamation used to express surprise, shock, frustration, or disbelief — similar to “Oh my God!” or “Goodness!” in English. While it directly references God, its use in everyday speech is typically not religious.

In French conversation, mon dieu can be serious or exaggerated for dramatic effect. It appears in literature, films, and casual speech, though modern French speakers may also use alternatives like oh là là or zut alors to express emotion. The phrase has been used in English-language media as well, often to give a character a French flair.

Though it’s a common phrase, its intensity depends on context. In a lighthearted setting, it might signal mild surprise — Mon dieu! Tu as tout mangé? (“My God! You ate everything?”). In more serious situations, it can convey genuine shock or distress.