can't be helped. and couldn't be helped
it can't be helped
A phrase used when one is faced with something (usually something unpleasant) that cannot be avoided. I'm not thrilled to spend my Saturday cleaning, but it can't be helped—the house is a mess! We tried to stall for more time, but I'm afraid it can't be helped—you'll have to go on stage now.
See also: help
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
(It) can't be helped. and (It) couldn't be helped.
Nothing can be done to help the situation.; The situation could not have been avoided. John: The accident has blocked traffic in two directions. Jane: It can't be helped. They have to get the people out of the cars and send them to the hospital. Bill: My goodness, the lawn looks dead! Sue: It can't be helped. There's no rain and water is rationed. John: I'm sorry I broke your figurine. Sue: It couldn't be helped. John: I'll replace it. Sue: That would be nice. Bill: I'm sorry I'm late. I hope it didn't mess things up. Bob: It can't be helped.
See also: and, help
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
- it can't be helped
- (it) couldn't be helped
- can't be bad
- (as) sure as eggs (is eggs)
- high on
- high on (something)
- high on something
- (one's) best foot forward
- beck and call
- be twiddling (one's) thumbs