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Chinglish Phrase

"No can do"

干不了 / I can't do it / Impossible

Unable to do something.

🌏 Origin & Context

19th-century Chinese Pidgin English. It's one of the most successful Chinglish phrases that native speakers use without realizing its origin.

Deep Dive

Originating from 'Pidgin English' used in Chinese ports. It corresponds to 'bù néng zuò' (不能做). It is now fully accepted as informal standard English.

How to use it

  • 01. "Can you lend me $100? No can do."
  • 02. "I asked him to help, but he said no can do."
Visual Representation
No can do
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