2023-05-31 11:02:31
Why do I need to know Alas?
Because despite being quite old-fashioned, you might hear someone slip this word into the middle of their sentence.
What does it mean?
Alas – roughly pronounced ay-lass – is an interjection that you are likely to see if you are reading a French novel, or hear, if someone is telling a particularly dramatic story.
Alas is used in a manner very similar to the English term ‘alas’ – as an interjection in the middle of a sentence or thought, though typically before describing something unfortunate or upsetting. In fact, the English term likely arose from the French one during the Middle Ages.
A French synonym might be Unfortunately (unfortunately).
It’s common in novels, especially historic ones, while in spoken French, you might hear it more sarcastically, as it is a bit old-fashioned. If your friend is feeling a bit theatrical in their storytelling, then they might pop Alas in for dramatic effect.
Use it like this
I drove around looking for parking for an hour and alas, just when I found my spot, someone else took it. – I drove around in the parking lot for an hour, and alas, just when I found a spot, someone else took it.
The early 20th century writer wrote more than 20 masterpieces, but alas, he never received recognition during his lifetime. – The early 20th century writer wrote over 20 masterpieces, but alas, he was never recognised in his lifetime.
#French #Word #Day #Hélas