You cannot/could not but…
phrase
It's impossible to avoid or resist doing something.
She is so charming, you cannot but like her.
Often appears as...
- you cannot/could not but admire
- you cannot/could not but agree
phrase
Can't avoid the fact or truth of something.
Considering the evidence, you could not but accept the truth.
Often appears as...
- you cannot/could not but accept
- you cannot/could not but acknowledge
phrase
It's necessary or obligatory to do something.
Given the circumstances, you could not but obey.
Often appears as...
- you cannot/could not but obey
- you cannot/could not but follow
phrase
It's impossible to avoid or resist doing something.
She is so charming, you cannot but like her.
Often appears as...
- you cannot/could not but admire
- you cannot/could not but agree
phrase
Can't avoid the fact or truth of something.
Considering the evidence, you could not but accept the truth.
Often appears as...
- you cannot/could not but accept
- you cannot/could not but acknowledge
phrase
It's necessary or obligatory to do something.
Given the circumstances, you could not but obey.
Often appears as...
- you cannot/could not but obey
- you cannot/could not but follow
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Unavoidable Likability
Use when you feel compelled to admire someone's positive qualities.
He's such an honest person, you cannot but respect him.
Pro Tip 2/3Compulsive Reaction
Expresses an action or feeling that seems automatic due to someone's behavior or qualities.
With her sense of humor, you cannot but laugh.
Pro Tip 3/3Irresistible Traits
Highlights the irresistible nature of something that makes you react a certain way.
Seeing the puppy's eyes, you could not but cuddle it.
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