In the vast realm of internet culture, memes have become a significant part of our daily lives. They serve as a form of social commentary, humor, and a means of connecting people across the globe.
One such meme that has gained popularity in recent times is the “You can’t just say perchance” meme. This article will delve into the origins of this meme, its spread across various platforms, and the underlying reasons behind its appeal.
What Does You Can’t Just Say Perchance Mean?
You Can’t Just Say Perchance is originally a comment made by the reviewer of a fake essay where the writer used the word Perchance severally and incorrectly. You will see a snippet of this in the photo above.
It was meant as a correction on the wrong and excess use of the word, Perchance.
Now, the expression is used as part of a copypasta for different expressions of humour and friendly banter which I will explore in this article.
Where Did You Can’t Just Say Perchance Come From?
The “You can’t just say perchance meme” seems to be a reference to a video that went viral on TikTok in 2022.
In the video, a man is reading an essay about the video game Mario, but he repeatedly replaces the word “perhaps” with the word “perchance.” The title of the essay is Mario, the Idea vs. Mario, the Man
The video is funny because of the man’s serious tone of voice and the absurdity of replacing a common word with a more archaic and unusual one.
However, it is also thought to have appeared first as a Twitter post by comedian @PhilJamesson on 18 February, on the same essay about the Mario game.
- However, the original post was made in 2021 and not 2022. So, it is not clear what the true origins are.
The meme has since quickly spread to other social media platforms, and it is now commonly used to make fun of people who use pretentious or overly complicated language. It can also be used to express disbelief or surprise.
For example, if someone says something like “I believe that the current political climate is quite precarious,” you might respond with “You can’t just say precarious.” This would be a way of saying that the person is using unnecessarily complicated language, or that their statement is obvious or overstated.
The meme can also be used in a more light-hearted way. For example, if someone says something like “I’m going to the store to buy some milk,” you might respond with “You can’t just say perchance milk.” This would be a way of teasing the person or making a joke about the meme.
Spread and Evolution
Like many memes, the “You can’t just say perchance” meme quickly spread across social media platforms, primarily through video sharing sites and meme pages.
Users began creating variations of the original dialogue by incorporating it into different contexts, such as movie scenes, TV shows, or real-life situations. This adaptability and versatility were key factors in the meme’s widespread popularity, as it allowed for endless creative interpretations.
One popular use of the “You can’t just say perchance” meme happened in a popular social deduction game called “Among Us.”
In this multiplayer game, players take on the roles of crewmates aboard a spaceship, trying to identify impostors within their midst. The meme was used very hilariously in a specific in-game dialogue, where a character states, “You can’t just say perchance,” in response to a player’s suspicion of someone being an impostor.
Humor and Relatability
The appeal of the “You can’t just say perchance” meme lies in its humorous and relatable nature. The line itself is somewhat absurd and unexpected, creating a comic effect that resonates with viewers. Moreover, the meme captures the essence of online interactions, where people often respond to statements in exaggerated or nonsensical ways, adding to the overall hilarity.
Social Commentary
While the primary purpose of the “You can’t just say perchance” meme is entertainment, it also serves as a form of social commentary. The meme highlights the absurdity and unpredictability of online conversations, where even the most serious discussions can take a sudden detour into absurdity. It humorously reflects the chaotic nature of internet culture, where unexpected responses and non-sequiturs are commonplace.
The Memetic Nature
The “You can’t just say perchance” meme exemplifies the memetic nature of internet culture. Memes thrive on their ability to spread rapidly and be easily recognizable, often relying on shared experiences or references.
The catchphrase, “You can’t just say perchance,” has become a cultural touchstone within online communities, instantly recognizable and capable of evoking a sense of camaraderie among meme enthusiasts.
When Did You Can’t Just Say Perchance Meme Start?
Contrary to popular opinion, the meme started in 2021 and not 2022. However, it seems to have become more popular in 2022 after the TikTok and Twitter posts.
According to KnowYourMeme, for example, it started with a Twitter post by a comedian, in February 2022.
But it is clear that the original essay was posted in 2021 and became an instant hit. However, it only garnered global popularity after it was shared by popular people in 2022.
My Final Thoughts
The “You can’t just say perchance” meme is a testament to the power of internet humor and its ability to bring people together through shared experiences. It originated from a video game but quickly transcended its original context to permeate various aspects of popular culture.
This meme’s appeal lies in its humor, relatability, and social commentary, exemplifying the ever-evolving and unpredictable nature of internet memes.
As we continue to navigate the vast landscape of internet culture, it is memes like these that remind us of the unique and vibrant community we are a part of.
Overall, the “You can’t just say perchance meme” is a versatile meme that can be used in a variety of contexts. It is a good way to express disbelief, surprise, or amusement, and it can also be used to make fun of pretentious language.