won't do
FORMAL
This page is about the conversational phrase won't do
Meaning
You can say this if you think a situation, or someone's behaviour, isn't good enough or isn't acceptable.
For example
- "You've failed another exam, and it simply won't do. You've got to try harder."
- "Being seen with that boy just won't do, David. He's not like us."
"But he's my best friend, Mum. And I'm learning all this stuff about Africa."
Variety
This is typically used in British English but may be used in other varieties of English too.
Contributor: Matt Errey