no can do

Idioms  

1. It's impossible; I can't do this. For example, When Bill asked me to write a speech, I told him bluntly no can do. This colloquial phrase was first recorded in 1914.

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Example Sentences

To quote Hall & Oates, “I can’t go for that. No can do.”

From Los Angeles Times

“I was told by the chairman of the Appropriations Committee, ‘Sorry, no can do,’” he said.

From Seattle Times

No can do, said British Airways.

From Washington Post

Then he said: 'No can do boss, the water's too cold.'

From BBC

But perhaps more than any other therapy, giving yourself permission to say no can do wonders for mental rehabilitation, experts say.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• helpless
• impotent
• inadequate
• incapable
• not able
• powerless
• sidelined
• unfit
• weak