in spite of yourself

in spite of (oneself)

1. Despite one's own foibles, mistakes, or flaws. Somehow the Eagles managed to pull off a victory in spite of themselves. I knocked over my drink and called her the wrong name at one point, but all in all, I think the date went well in spite of myself. If he doesn't talk much, he might be able to have a successful interview in spite of himself!

2. Despite or against one's desire or intention. I was scared senseless when I realized there was a burglar in the house, but I laughed in spite of myself when he slipped on a banana peel on the kitchen floor. My little boy raises the cutest objections to time-outs that I end up smiling in spite of myself. I was riding the bus when I read that massive spoiler and gasped in spite of myself.

See also: of, spite

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

(do something) in ˈspite of yourself

(do something) even though you do not want or expect to: He was a bit depressed so I tried to cheer him up with a joke. He smiled in spite of himself.

See also: of, spite

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017