English–French
“unfortunately” in French
Pronunciation
IPA/elas/
Example
Je suis, hélas, en retard.
Unfortunately, I am late.
How to say “unfortunately” in French
“Unfortunately” in French is hélas.
A sigh placed beside an unwelcome fact, marking regret while accepting that the fact cannot be changed.
Example sentences with hélas
Hélas, il a perdu son emploi.
Alas, he lost his job.
Tips for using hélas
- Hélas sounds literary or formal in everyday speech, where tant pis or dommage is often more natural.
Other French words for “unfortunately”
Je suis malheureusement en retard.
Unfortunately, I am late.