avoir tort

You must conjugate the verb avoir (to have). Never use être (to be) with this phrase. If you say je suis tort, people will look at you very strangely! You can use it alone: Tu as tort. You can also follow it with de and a verb. For example, Tu as tort de partir means 'You are wrong to leave.' It’s simple and very flexible.

Use it during a friendly debate at a cafe. Use it when you realize you gave someone the wrong directions. It’s perfect for admitting a mistake to your boss or partner. You’ll hear it in movies, read it in books, and use it in texts. It’s the standard way to express being mistaken in any context.

Don't use avoir tort to describe a 'wrong' object. For example, 'the wrong key' is la mauvaise clé. Don't use it for moral 'evil.' That is usually le mal. This phrase is specifically about being mistaken or incorrect. Also, avoid using it if you just made a small typo; se tromper is better for minor slips.

French culture values logic and intellectual debate. Admitting you as tort is actually respected in a discussion. It shows you are following the logic of the argument. The word tort comes from the Latin 'tortus,' meaning 'twisted.' So, when you have tort, your logic is a little twisted!

You will often hear avoir tort sur toute la ligne. This means being 'wrong across the board' or 'completely wrong.' Another common one is donner tort à quelqu'un. This means to 'prove someone wrong' or 'side against someone.' It’s a powerful way to end a disagreement.