Can't help but do Meaning in English
expression
ˈkænt/ /ˈhɛɫp/ /ˈbət/ /ˈdu
KANT HELP but DOO
kɑːnt/ /hˈɛlp/ /bˈʌt/ /dʉː
KAHNT HELP but DYOO
Definition
Used to express that someone is unable to stop themselves from doing something; they feel it is impossible not to act that way.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and common in spoken English. Often followed by a verb in base form: 'can't help but laugh'. Alternative: 'can't help doing' (e.g., 'can't help laughing'). Used to express strong feelings or instincts.
Spanish: no poder evitar hacerPortuguese (BR): não conseguir deixar de fazerPortuguese (PT): não conseguir deixar de fazerChinese (Simplified): 忍不住（做某事）Chinese (Traditional): 忍不住（做某事）Hindi: रोक नहीं पाना कि (कुछ करना)Arabic: لا يمكن إلا أن (يفعل)Bengali: নিজেকে থামাতে পারা যায় না - নিজের অজান্তেই করা হয়ে যায়Russian: не могу не сделать - не могу удержаться от того, чтобы сделатьJapanese: せずにはいられないVietnamese: không thể không làm - không thể kiềm chế làmKorean: 하지 않을 수 없다Turkish: yapmadan edememekUrdu: روک نہیں سکتا کہ کروںIndonesian: tidak bisa tidak melakukan
Example Sentences
I can't help but do my homework right after school.
basic
She can't help but do the right thing, even when it's difficult.
basic
You can't help but do what you love.
basic
I saw the puppy and can't help but do a little happy dance.
natural
Every time someone tells a joke, I can't help but do a big laugh.
natural
When my favorite song comes on, I can't help but do some silly dance moves.
natural