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general::
Phrase(s): (It) can’t be helped. [and] (It) couldn’t be helped.
Nothing can be done to help the situation.; The situation could not have been avoided. • John: The accident has blocked traffic in two directions. Jane: It can’t be helped. They have to get the people out of the cars and send them to the hospital. • Bill: My goodness, the lawn looks dead! Sue: It can’t be helped. There’s no rain and water is rationed. • John: I’m sorry I broke your figurine. Sue: It couldn’t be helped. John: I’ll replace it. Sue: That would be nice. • Bill: I’m sorry I’m late. I hope it didn’t mess things up. Bob: It can’t be helped.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs