can is can en · X
Pronunciation
- [ˈkʰɛn˦ ɪs˨ ˈkʰɛn˦] (Singapore)
- /ˈkæn ɪz ˈkæn/ (Singapore)
- [- ˈkʰɛn˦˧] (Singapore)
- [- ˈkʰɛn˨˦] (Singapore, variant) for sense 1 before a pause in speech
Etymology
See can (“fine, acceptable, possible”, Singlish, intransitive).
Meanings
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(Singapore, Singlish) While something is possible or makes sense in theory, it may not be as straightforward or sensible as initially thought, or may prove to be less successful in practice.
How about turning one man’s trash into another man’s treasure? Well, can is can.
2021 January 26, G Tan, “Thought Ambush’s Clothes Peg Earring Was Wild? Here Are 3 More Mind-Blowing Accessories”, in you.co, archived from the original on 11 Apr 2021:I packed lots of sleeveless clothes, sunblock, and of course a cap. Slippers? Can is can but Hong Kongers are not usually so sloppy la. People here wear pretty nice shoes, and the youngsters are carrying drawstring bags.
2015 June 25, Skye Soon, “Skye High in Hong Kong: Places”, in skyesoon.com:
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(Singapore, Singlish) Used to reassure someone that something is definitely possible or doable, by reinforcing the definitiveness of a previous statement of can.
This has helped a lot when it comes to taking on different projects. We try to have a “can is can” attitude, rather than saying no when we’re uncertain or feel intimidated by unfamiliar materials. Instead, we just say, “Let’s do it and see how it goes.”
2023 December 11, Zara Zhuang, quoting Sanchia Tan, “#GraziaGameChangers: Sanchia Tan On How Design, Textiles And Weave Are Intertwined”, in grazia.sg, archived from the original on 11 Dec 2023: