A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I've been robbed" in French
Expresses that you've been a victim of theft in France. Essential for reporting a crime.
On m'a volé !
ohn mah voh-LAYneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this immediately if you realize your wallet, phone, or bag has been stolen. It's the direct way to alert someone, like a shopkeeper or police officer, that a crime has occurred.
Alternatives
- Je me suis fait voler !Slightly more personal, emphasizes your direct experience.
- J'ai été victime d'un vol !More formal, often used in official reports or news.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'volé' like 'vole'
The final 'é' in 'volé' is pronounced like the 'ay' in 'say', not like the silent 'e'.
Confusing 'volé' and 'voté'
'Volé' means robbed; 'voté' means voted.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
What to say if someone stole my phone in Paris?
Say 'On m'a volé !' to get immediate attention. Then, you'll need to go to the police to file a report.
How to report a pickpocket in France?
The most direct phrase is 'On m'a volé !'. This clearly signals that a theft has just happened and you need help.
Is 'On m'a volé' the best phrase for emergencies?
Yes, 'On m'a volé !' is the standard and most effective way to report being robbed in an emergency situation.
