it is what it is

[ it iz wuht it iz ]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of it is what it is¹

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

He shared, "I mean, it is what it is. I’ve honestly moved past it. It was dealt with, and I got to change. So that’s it, it’s over. I mean, I’ve worked in the U.S. too. So I’m just trying to move on."

From Salon

“Obviously, people, you know, seek a lot of negativity around our team, and it is what it is,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

I’ve found myself using that phrase a lot lately: It is what it is.

From Los Angeles Times

It is what it is, as they say.

From Los Angeles Times

"It is what it is. The good thing is the team has made a step with the car, the upgrade has clearly worked. Really grateful to everyone in the factory. It’s not the end of the day. Tomorrow we have another shot."

From BBC