No can do

usgb
phrase

Impossible to do or achieve.

I asked him to lend me $500, but he said, no can do.
Visual representation of "no can do" - Impossible to do or achieve

Often appears as...

  • sorry
  • no can do

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "no can do"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Slang Usage

Used informally, often among friends or in casual conversations.

Illustration for Slang Usage
Can you finish this project by tomorrow? No can do, that's unrealistic.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Polite Refusal

A light-hearted or humorous way to say you can't do something without sounding rude.

Illustration for Polite Refusal
Could you cover my shift this weekend? Sorry, no can do! I have plans.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Formal

Avoid using it in formal situations. Use 'I can't' or 'I cannot' instead.

Illustration for Not Formal
In a job interview, instead of saying 'no can do,' say 'I am unable to do that'.
Visual representation of the word "No can do"

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