Meaning
Used to wish someone success.
Cultural Background
In the theater world, saying 'Bonne chance' is considered a curse. Actors say 'Merde' instead. Usage is identical to France, but you might also hear 'Bonne chance' used more frequently in casual business settings. Often accompanied by 'On est ensemble' (We are together) to show communal support alongside the wish for luck.
Gender Trap
Never say 'Bon chance'. It is the #1 mistake for beginners. Always remember 'La chance' is a lady!
The 'Merde' Rule
If you are talking to an artist or an actor, use 'Merde' to sound like a true local.
Meaning
Used to wish someone success.
Gender Trap
Never say 'Bon chance'. It is the #1 mistake for beginners. Always remember 'La chance' is a lady!
The 'Merde' Rule
If you are talking to an artist or an actor, use 'Merde' to sound like a true local.
Response
When someone says 'Bonne chance' to you, the standard response is simply 'Merci !'
Test Yourself
Choose the correct gender for the phrase.
___ chance pour ton examen !
'Chance' is a feminine singular noun.
When should you say 'Bonne chance'?
Your friend is about to start a race.
Luck is wished for upcoming events.
Complete the sentence with the correct preposition.
Bonne chance ___ ton entretien.
'Pour' is the standard preposition used with 'Bonne chance' to indicate the event.
What is the most natural response?
A: 'Je passe mon permis de conduire demain.' B: '___ !'
The driving test is in the future, so luck is appropriate.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Bonne Chance vs. Bon Courage
When to say it
School
- • Exams
- • Presentations
- • Competitions
Work
- • Interviews
- • New Jobs
- • Meetings
Life
- • Dates
- • Travel
- • Games
Practice Bank
4 exercises___ chance pour ton examen !
'Chance' is a feminine singular noun.
Your friend is about to start a race.
Luck is wished for upcoming events.
Bonne chance ___ ton entretien.
'Pour' is the standard preposition used with 'Bonne chance' to indicate the event.
A: 'Je passe mon permis de conduire demain.' B: '___ !'
The driving test is in the future, so luck is appropriate.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsIt's better to say 'Félicitations' or 'Tous mes vœux de bonheur'. 'Bonne chance' might imply the marriage will be difficult!
Use 'à toi' to direct the wish to the person, and 'pour' to specify the event. 'Bonne chance à toi pour ton examen.'
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
It's a superstition from the days of horse-drawn carriages; lots of 'merde' outside the theater meant a large crowd had come to see the show.
Yes, it's a very common way to end an email if the recipient mentioned an upcoming challenge.
Luck (Chance) is for the result; Courage is for the effort required during the process.
Related Phrases
Bon courage
similarGood luck/Hang in there
Merde
informalShit (Good luck)
Je croise les doigts
similarI'm crossing my fingers
Meilleurs vœux
relatedBest wishes
