No can do Meaning in English
expression
ˈnoʊ/ /ˈkæn/, /kən/ /ˈdu
NOH-kan-DOO or NOH-kuhn-DOO
nəʊ/ /kˈæn/ /dʉː
NOH-kan-DOO
Definition
An informal and humorous way to say you cannot do something or cannot help.
Usage & Nuances
Very informal, often playful; sometimes used to soften refusal. Never used in formal writing. Originates from imitating non-native English speakers. Don't use in serious or professional situations.
Spanish: no puedo - no se puedePortuguese (BR): não dá - não consigoPortuguese (PT): não pode ser - não consigoChinese (Simplified): 做不到 - 不行Chinese (Traditional): 做不到 - 不行Hindi: नहीं हो सकता - मुमकिन नहींArabic: لا يمكن - لا أستطيعBengali: পারবো না - সম্ভব নয়Russian: не могу - никакJapanese: 無理だよ - できないVietnamese: không được đâu - chịu thôiKorean: 못 해 - 안 돼Turkish: olmaz - yapamamUrdu: نہیں ہو سکتا - معذرتIndonesian: nggak bisa - tidak bisa
Example Sentences
Sorry, no can do. I have plans tonight.
basic
Can you lend me your car? No can do.
basic
They asked me to work on Saturday, but I said no can do.
basic
I'd love to help you move, but no can do—my back is killing me.
natural
You want me to cover your shift again? Sorry, no can do this time.
natural
Thanks for asking, but no can do—I’m swamped with work today.
natural