The fixed expression joins tant, meaning so much, with pis, an old comparative meaning worse and descended from Latin peius. Pis has largely given way to pire elsewhere, but remains alive in this expression, attested since the 16th or 17th century.
The fixed expression joins tant, meaning so much, with pis, an old comparative meaning worse and descended from Latin peius. Pis has largely given way to pire elsewhere, but remains alive in this expression, attested since the 16th or 17th century.
What does tant pis mean?
Tant pis means “too bad”, “oh well”, or “so be it” when an unwelcome result must be accepted.
What does tant pis pour toi mean?
Tant pis pour toi means “too bad for you”. Depending on tone, it may sound matter-of-fact, dismissive, or blaming.
Is tant pis rude?
Not by itself. It can express simple resignation, but tant pis pour toi may sound unsympathetic when directed at someone.
What is the opposite of tant pis?
The usual opposite is tant mieux, which expresses satisfaction that something turned out well.
How do you pronounce tant pis?
Tant pis is pronounced /tɑ̃ pi/, with a nasal vowel in tant and a silent final t and s.
Why is it tant pis, not tant pire?
Pis is an older word meaning worse that survives in this fixed expression. Standard French says tant pis, not tant pire.