can't help but

can't help but {informal} also {formal} cannot but {v. phr.}

To be forced to; can only; must.

When the streets are full of melting snow, you can't help but get your shoes wet.

When a friend gave Jim a ticket to the game, he couldn't help but go.

When a close friend dies, you cannot but feel sad.

Compare: CAN HELP, HAVE TO.

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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms

by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2025

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