How to Complain like a Local in France

It is often stated that complaining is part of French culture. After living in France for over eight years running La Grue Gîtes in the gorgeous Charente, I am beginning to really understand that to ‘push back’ and to dare to complain gains respect, despite clearly going against the grain. In the UK, complaints in public are rarely made. Now we are established locally, and people either know us or our reputation, the confidence to complain is growing– in my own polite franglais way! So, why is complaining in French almost seen as a national sport? 

It could be linked to the French Revolution, where challenging authority for the good of the masses first became embedded in the national psyche. Being united over a shared grievance does trigger bonding; moaning about the weather or the price of a baguette can create a sense of solidarity. Or could a well thought-through argument demonstrate a level of critical thinking and therefore intelligence that is valued in French culture?

Whatever the reason, how might you go about complaining in French? A good starting place could be the everyday noises of disapproval. These do differ. ‘Hop, hop-hop’ or ‘Oh là lore’, ‘Bof’ and ‘Bah alors?’ are heard regularly in the Charente to signal disapproval or shock. A shrug works wonders, as does a sort of breaking-wind sound from your lips coupled with the shrug. 

Useful Phrases 

A good start when you want to râler (to complain or grumble) is:

 C’est pas possible! – it’s not possible

C’est pas vrai ! – you have got to be kidding me!

C’est n’importe quoi! – this is ridiculous!

J’en ai marre! or J’en ai ral-le-bol !  – I have had enough of this!

C’est une blague?– Is this a joke?

C’est inadmissible! – This is not acceptable!

Complaining in Different Settings

Wherever you find yourself, it is advisable to begin with ‘excusez-moi’ – there are always rules of etiquette and levels of politeness required in any culture.

On attend depuis un petit moment…. – a polite way of saying, we have been waiting ages.

Ce n’est pas ce que nous avons commandé – This is not what we ordered.

On croit qu’il y a une petite erreur sur l’addition – There is a mistake on the bill. 

C’est dommage que… – It is a shame that – This is a great way of complaining without causing upset – It may keep the staff on your side.

On va jamais arriver! – We are never going to get there – A great saying to bring out when public transport is delayed.

C’est pas possible, ils sont toujours en grève ! – This is not possible – they are always on strike!

Il y a un monde fou – There is a crazy amount of people!

Bonne courage with your complaints and remember to be direct, factual and unapologetic. This approach, coupled with tenacious persistence, should be a winning combination.