French Phrase
C'est vraiment dommage.
Meaning
This phrase is used to express genuine disappointment or regret regarding a situation. 'C'est' means 'it is', 'vraiment' adds emphasis as 'really', and 'dommage' translates to 'pity' or 'shame'.
When to use
Use this phrase when reacting to minor bad news, a missed opportunity, or a disappointing turn of events. It is suitable for both informal chats with friends and professional contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'estvraimentdommage
C'est
A contraction of 'ce' (that/it) and 'est' (is), used to identify or describe a situation.
Vraiment
An adverb used to intensify the feeling of the sentence, similar to 'really' or 'truly' in English.
Dommage
While it can mean physical 'damage', in this context it is an idiomatic noun meaning 'a pity'.
🗨In Conversation
Je ne peux pas venir au concert ce soir car je dois travailler.
I can't come to the concert tonight because I have to work.
Oh non, c'est vraiment dommage. On ira une prochaine fois !
Oh no, that's a real shame. We will go another time!
✕Common Mistakes
Il est vraiment dommage.
Use 'C'est' when referring to a general situation or idea already mentioned.
C'est vraiment un dommage.
In this idiomatic expression, the noun 'dommage' is used without an indefinite article.
↔Alternatives
Quel dommage !
What a pity!
C'est bête.
That's a bummer / That's silly.
C'est regrettable.
It is regrettable.
Cultural Tip
In France, this expression is often accompanied by a small 'bof' sound or a slight shrug to show resignation. It is a very common way to empathize with someone else's minor misfortune without being overly dramatic.