can't help

Idioms  

1. 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]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

can't help

I understand where she’s coming from, but I can’t help feeling like it’s a bit ridiculous to essentially require an $80 cover charge for your birthday party.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 31, 2026

I can’t help but recognize the irony that Edwin Díaz is on the IL with neck inflammation.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 22, 2026

“You just can’t help being a total noob when you get to a workplace because you lack the only thing that truly matters, which is experience,” Grandy added.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 20, 2026

"I can't help myself, I've got to tell them about it," he said.

From BBC ● Aug. 4, 2026

“I can’t help you with the queen, but if you have a suggestion, leave it in the suggestion box. That’s the best I can do.”

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood