can't but
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“I can’t, but it’s possible. But we have to find out.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026
"No-one says it on the record because they can't, but fans and sponsors pay wages and this trip is all about revenues," he said.
From BBC • May 30, 2025
"For example, we made a plastic device that uses graphene as a terahertz sensor. Like X-rays, terahertz radiation can pass through objects that light can't, but doesn't damage the body," Professor Ago says.
From Science Daily • Feb. 9, 2024
I really can't, but I'm thrilled about this season.
From Salon • Mar. 20, 2023
"Soldiers take a vow to protect Orléans to the death. I can't, but your sister can."
From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
