nicht umhin können
to be unable to avoid
To have to do something despite one's own reluctance or a desire to avoid doing it.
EXAMPLE
Ich kann nicht umhin, ihm zu widersprechen.
I can't help but contradict him.
umhin
to help it
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Meanings
Usage tips
Fixed expression
'Umhin' is used almost exclusively in the fixed expression 'nicht umhin können' (to be unable to avoid). It is normally used together with 'nicht' and a verb expressing ability, such as 'können' (can).
EXAMPLE
Sie konnte nicht umhin, auf den Fehler hinzuweisen.
She couldn't help but point out the mistake.
Infinitive clause
'Nicht umhin können' (to be unable to avoid) is usually followed by an infinitive clause with 'zu' (to). A comma comes before this infinitive clause.
EXAMPLE
Wir können nicht umhin, die schwierige Entscheidung zu akzeptieren.
We can't help but accept the difficult decision.
Formal style
'Umhin' is mainly used in elevated or written language and frequently appears in argumentative or formal texts.
EXAMPLE
Der Ausschuss konnte nicht umhin, die bestehenden Probleme ausdrücklich zu benennen.
The committee could not help but explicitly name the existing problems.
In real life
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