couldn't help it

This page is about the conversational phrase couldn't help it

Meaning

You can use this to say you, or someone else, can't be blamed for something going wrong.

For example

  • "You're late again!"
    "I couldn't help it, sir. I had a flat tyre."

  • "She missed her appointment."
    "She couldn't help it. One of her kids was sick."

Quick Quiz

When asked why I drove through a red light, I said, "I couldn't help it.

a. I really hate red lights."

b. My brakes didn't work."

c. I was texting someone."
a) I really hate red lights." b) My brakes didn't work." c) I was texting someone."

Contributor: Matt Errey