Showing results for "it is what it is"

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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.

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Etymology

Origin of it is what it is

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

it is what it is

"I never thought I'd spend the night at the airport, but it is what it is and we are learning," one stranded air traveller told NHK.

From Barron's ● Aug. 14, 2026

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

From Barron's ● Jan. 20, 2026

But like Stellan said, it is what it is.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 11, 2025

"It's part of the game unfortunately - it is what it is."

From BBC ● Apr. 12, 2025

I hate he’s in this position, but it is what it is.

From "On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas