Malchance vs. malheur
The French words 'malchance' and 'malheur' both refer to negative events or outcomes, often translated as 'bad luck' or 'misfortune'. Despite their similar meanings, they are used in different contexts and nuances, which we will explore below.
Malchance
'Malchance' specifically refers to bad luck or an unlucky streak. It emphasizes chance and the lack of success that comes despite one's efforts.
Il a eu la malchance de glisser sur la glace.
(He had the bad luck to slip on the ice.)
Je connais quelqu'un qui a une incroyable malchance aux jeux de hasard.
(I know someone who has incredible bad luck in games of chance.)
Avoir une telle malchance au travail est vraiment inhabituel.
(Having such bad luck at work is really unusual.)
Malheur
'Malheur' indicates a deeper sense of misfortune or woe, often implying something more serious or unfortunate happening. It can also denote a calamity or disaster.
Le malheur a frappé sa famille avec la perte de leur maison.
(Misfortune struck his family with the loss of their house.)
Les malheurs ne viennent jamais seuls.
(Misfortunes never come singly.)
Elle a versé des larmes de malheur après avoir reçu la nouvelle.
(She shed tears of misery after receiving the news.)
Summary
While both 'malchance' and 'malheur' relate to unfortunate events, 'malchance' is used to describe a stroke of bad luck, often related to chance or fleeting situations. In contrast, 'malheur' usually conveys a sense of greater misfortune, distress, or even tragedy. Understanding these nuances helps appropriately convey the gravity of a situation in French.