can't even
can't even · can't even · couldn't even · can'ting even
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see can't, evenUsed other than figuratively or idiomatically: see can't, even.
/ˈkænt ˌiːvən/
Meaning
2 senses(no past participle, no present participle)Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see can't, even.
He’s nine years old, and can’t even tie his own shoelaces!
(no past participle, no present participle, slang)Without a following verb, as an expression of aporia: to be unable to express one's feelings about an overwhelming situation.
Oh my God, I got cheap tickets to the Beyoncé concert! I can’t even!
Origin
An aposiopesis of "(I) can't even believe it", "can't even process it" or some comparableAn aposiopesis of "(I) can't even believe it", "can't even process it" or some comparable expression.
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Forms
can't even, can'ting even, couldn't even, couldn't even| Base form | can't even · to can't even |
|---|---|
| 3rd person singular | can't even |
| Present participle | can'ting even |
| Past simple | couldn't even |
| Past participle | couldn't even |
irregular · Lesson
Lessons for this word
2 lessons- A1Present simple — Because it is a verb
- A1Past simple, irregular verbs — Because of its past form