A guide to understanding this common—but often misunderstood—English phrase.
The phrase “can’t help (to) do something” is used to express that someone is unable to stop themselves from doing something—usually because of strong emotion, habit, or instinct.
However, in standard modern English, we usually say “can’t help doing”, not “can’t help to do.” The version with “to do” is rare and often considered incorrect by native speakers.
✅ Correct structure:
❌ Incorrect (non-standard):
While you might occasionally hear “can’t help to do” in informal speech or older texts, it’s best avoided in writing and formal communication.
Many English verbs are followed by the infinitive (“to do”), like “want to go” or “decide to leave.” But “help” behaves differently after “can’t”—it takes a gerund (-ing form), just like “enjoy,” “avoid,” or “mind.”
Which sentence is correct?