Definition of 'cannot but'
phrase
butYou use cannot but, could not but, and cannot help but when you want to emphasize that you believe something must be true and that there is no possibility of anything else being the case.
[formal, emphasis] The pistol was positioned where I couldn't help but see it.
She could not but congratulate him.
COBUILD Advanced English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers
Example sentences containing 'cannot but'
These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content.
Read more…
You cannot but help swim your best. Times, Sunday Times (2008)It cannot but help that his perspective remains clear and uncluttered. Times, Sunday Times (2010)
Nearby words of 'cannot but'
Related Terms of 'cannot but'
Source
Definition of cannot but from the
Collins English Dictionary
5 unusual words & phrases to upgrade your World Cup 2018 banter
Impress your friends, family and colleagues with this unusual collection of football lingo.
Read more
VAR, planebae & a peng sort: July’s Words in the News
Catch up on the latest words in the news this July with Robert Groves.
Read more
Join the Collins community
All the latest wordy news, linguistic insights, offers and competitions every month.
Read more