Showing results for "it is what it is"

SEE ALSO:

Slang dictionary results for it is what it is.

it is what it is

American  

[it iz wuht it iz] / ɪt ˌɪz wʌt ɪt ˈɪz /

idiom

1. the situation cannot be helped and must be taken in stride.

   Too bad about the drought ruining your lilies, but it is what it is—our gardens need to fit the current environment.

---

Etymology

Origin of it is what it is

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

It’s not like I just finished, and it is what it is.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 2, 2026

"It's little bit soft, the second one, but it is what it is."

From Barron's • Jan. 20, 2026

"We did have a police lady come down and use the toilet and not say anything, which I didn't think was helpful but it is what it is," she said.

From BBC • Jul. 22, 2025

He’s probably going to get cut soon, so it is what it is with that.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2024

Like many things, it is what it is.

From "I Am the Messenger" by Markus Zusak