# can't help

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/cant-help
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be unable to avoid a situation, or stop something from happening.

## Examples

- I can't help laughing when I see that funny video.
- She knew she should be quiet in the library, but she couldn't help whispering to her friend.
- Even though he understood the risks involved in the venture, he couldn't help feeling a sense of optimism about the final outcome.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.