“I can’t help + verb-ing” is a very common English expression. We use it when we cannot stop ourselves from doing something. It shows that the action happens naturally or without control.
For example, when something is very funny, you might say, “I can’t help laughing.” When you really like someone, you may say, “I can’t help thinking about her.”
In daily conversation, this phrase helps you sound more natural and emotional. Native speakers use it often in friendly chats, at work, or with family. It makes your English sound smooth and confident.
◎ Important Points
- Always use verb + ing after “I can’t help”.
- Do not use the base verb (no “to” form).
- It shows you cannot control the action.
- It is often used for feelings and reactions.
- It is common in spoken English.
- You can use it in positive and emotional situations.
➤Key Concept
✅ Sentence Structure: Subject + can’t help + verb-ing
Example: I can’t help smiling when I see babies.
This structure is simple. After “can’t help,” always use a verb with “-ing.” It shows the action happens naturally.
Speaking Tip:
Practice saying the full phrase smoothly: “can’t help smiling,” not “can’t… help… smile.” Keep it connected.
➤ Common Mistakes To Avoid
| Common Mistake | Wrong Example | Correct Example |
|---|---|---|
| Using base verb | I can’t help laugh. | I can’t help laughing. |
| Using “to” form | I can’t help to laugh. | I can’t help laughing. |
| Forgetting -ing | She can’t help cry. | She can’t help crying. |
| Wrong word order | I help can’t laughing. | I can’t help laughing. |
| Using “don’t” instead | I don’t help laughing. | I can’t help laughing. |
➤ Examples
- I can’t help smiling when I see my old photos.
- She can’t help checking her phone every five minutes.
- We can’t help feeling excited about the trip.
- He can’t help talking loudly in meetings.
- I can’t help thinking about my future.
- They can’t help laughing at his jokes.
- My sister can’t help buying shoes on sale.
- I can’t help worrying about the exam.
- He can’t help eating sweets at night.
- I can’t help remembering our school days.
➤ Practice Examples
A. Fill in the Blanks
- I can’t help ______ (smile) when I see you.
- She can’t help ______ (check) her messages.
- We can’t help ______ (feel) nervous before interviews.
- He can’t help ______ (eat) fast food.
- They can’t help ______ (laugh) at that video.
B. Change the Incorrect Sentence to Correct One
- I can’t help cry.
- She can’t help to worry.
- He can’t help talk too much.
- We can’t help feel tired.
- They can’t help complain.
C. Speak This Sentence Aloud
Practice saying these clearly and smoothly:
- I can’t help smiling when I hear good news.
- She can’t help laughing at funny movies.
- I can’t help thinking about my goals.
- He can’t help eating chocolate.
- We can’t help feeling happy today.
