Oh la la

Yes, the French really do use this phrase and across an impressive array of situations.

There is the "oh laaa laaa" said with a knowing tone which indicates drama, disapproval or annoyance.

"Oh-la-la" said quickly on the exhale can be the conclusion to a dwindling sentence, indicating perhaps resignation, acceptance or simply rounding out a point.

There can be the "ooh la la" of pleasure at something unexpected and enjoyable, perhaps to a particularly appetising meal or maybe even a work of art.

And these are just the beginning. It seems Parisians enjoy using sounds instead of words in many instances to communicate anything from length to quality to judgements on an important issue. It's beyond verlan, or slang but counts for meaningful articles of conversation in and of itself. Once recognised, it's much easier to understand the locals, that really it's gibberish and one shouldn't worry so much about words, gestures and sounds are just as effective.