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can’t help

If you say that you cannot/can’t help doing something (especially in British English), you mean that you can’t stop yourself, even if you don’t want to do it.

  • She’s a selfish woman, but somehow you can’t help liking her.
  • Excuse me – I couldn’t help overhearing what you said.
  • Sorry I broke the cup – I couldn’t help it.

Can’t help can be followed by but + infinitive without to (see here), with the same meaning as can’t help …ing. This is common in American English.

  • I can’t help but wonder what I should do next.