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can is can, cannot is cannot
* Singlish is a largely spoken creole, and as such descriptivism (recording forms that reflect actual pronunciation in spoken language, or as appearing in the linguistic corpus) is more pertinent than strict prescriptivism. Nevertheless, the use of more standard forms (or for words originating in languages with Latin script, such as Malay, accurate to the original spelling) is recommended and encouraged.
also can:
if can can if can, can can is can, cannot is cannot can is can cannot is cannot
definitions
expression
- used to reassure somebody on, or (re)assert the validity or viability of, a previous statement of "can".
- used to express that while something is possible or doable, it may not have the intended outcome, be done in the most straightforward manner, prove very effective, etc.
I tell you, can is can. No need so kancheong like everyone else.
synonyms:
I mean, can is can... Just depends how much of this you want to change lor.
usage notes
Can be formed into longer sayings, such as "can is can, cannot is cannot", or variant forms such as "if can, can; if cannot, then cannot".
particles
lah
effect:
reassurance; confirmation, or reluctance
—
(can is can), of course
lah
effect:
reluctance; doubt
—
I mean technically yes, (can is can)...
one
effect:
persuasion; reassurance; appeal for faith
—
(can is can), I mean it; believe me, (can is can); certainly can, as is always so
meh?
effect:
doubt; questioning
—
can you really be sure?; is it really certain/possible?
hor
effect:
didacticness; assurance; assertion of opinion
—
yes, (can) really (is can); believe me, (can is can); listen here, (can is can) for sure