can-do
Americanadjective
noun
adjective
Etymology
Origin of can-do
First recorded in 1900–05
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Xi has tried to address the problem by telling officials that honest mistakes can be tolerated and strict discipline shouldn’t sap their can-do spirit.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 17, 2026
Still, Ned insists, with the right resources, adequate staff, and a can-do attitude, the Toledo Truth Teller can return to greatness.
From Salon ● Sep. 4, 2025
"I think having a can-do attitude to find solutions is what's needed, not apathy and being put in a 'too difficult' pile," she said.
From BBC ● Aug. 12, 2025
Grounded by Harden’s natural and loosely charming performance, Khalid treats his nightmare scenario with an alternating sense of anxiety and buoyant, joshing can-do attitude.
From New York Times ● Nov. 21, 2024
“Understand me, I was already the can-do type.”
From "Typical American" by Gish Jen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
