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can't help

Idioms

Also,. Be unable to do otherwise. For example, I can't help thinking that the keys will turn up eventually, or He couldn't help but believe he would pass the entrance exam, or I cannot but applaud his efforts. The first of these phrases, can't help, is always followed by a present participle whereas the others take an infinitive. [c. 1700]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And then — because I can’t help myself — a whisper of cardamom.

From Salon

He does the same with the other arm before he falls into a side abdominal stretch, and I can’t help but appreciate his well-toned obliques, and how his chestnut-colored hair falls over his eyes as he bends sideways.

From Literature

I know I’m staring but I can’t help it.

From Literature

I look at the tickets in my hand and can’t help seeing Mom’s disapproving face.

From Literature

I stand beside him, watching him work, and can’t help but notice that the grand prize is, in fact, a giant green lizard.

From Literature

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023