not able to help it
not able to help it
Unable to avoid some outcome or action, either because of some irresistible urge or because of powers outside of one's control. This phrase is often used to defend one's actions as involuntary or unavoidable. I don't want to be late to work every day, but I haven't been able to help it—the public transit strike has totally thrown off the train schedule. I know I should cut down on the cakes and treats in the evening, but I'm just not able to help it!
See also: able, help, not
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
not able to help something
unable to prevent or control something. (Not able to is often expressed as can't.) I'm sorry about being late. I wasn't able to help it. Bob can't help being boring.
See also: able, help, not
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
- not able to help
- beck and call
- How long is a piece of string?
- how/what about...?
- how about
- (one's) best foot forward
- best foot forward
- eggs is eggs
- from my cold, dead hands
- kicking and screaming