Shit happens

phrase

Used to express the fact that unfortunate or unexpected events occur in life, often beyond one's control.

I know you're upset that you lost your job, but shit happens.
Visual representation of "shit happens" - Used to express the fact that unfortunate or unexpected events occur in life, often beyond one's control.

Often appears as...

  • sometimes shit happens
  • shit happens

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial,Idiomatic

phrase

Used to express the fact that unfortunate or unexpected events occur in life, often beyond one's control.

I know you're upset that you lost your job, but shit happens.
Visual representation of "shit happens" - Used to express the fact that unfortunate or unexpected events occur in life, often beyond one's control.

Often appears as...

  • sometimes shit happens
  • shit happens

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial,Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "shit happens"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Distance

Expresses acceptance of misfortune without strong emotion, suggesting resilience or detachment.

Illustration for Emotional Distance
Missed the bus again? Well, shit happens.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

Appropriate in casual conversations among friends, but too informal for professional or formal contexts.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
When he told his buddy about the fender bender, he just shrugged and said, 'shit happens.'
LampPro Tip 3/3

Possible Offense

Can be considered vulgar or inappropriate; be cautious using it around people who might be offended.

Illustration for Possible Offense
She didn't realize her grandmother would be upset when she said, 'shit happens,' about the broken vase.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Distance

Expresses acceptance of misfortune without strong emotion, suggesting resilience or detachment.

Illustration for Emotional Distance
Missed the bus again? Well, shit happens.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

Appropriate in casual conversations among friends, but too informal for professional or formal contexts.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
When he told his buddy about the fender bender, he just shrugged and said, 'shit happens.'
LampPro Tip 3/3

Possible Offense

Can be considered vulgar or inappropriate; be cautious using it around people who might be offended.

Illustration for Possible Offense
She didn't realize her grandmother would be upset when she said, 'shit happens,' about the broken vase.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Distance

Expresses acceptance of misfortune without strong emotion, suggesting resilience or detachment.

Illustration for Emotional Distance
Missed the bus again? Well, shit happens.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

Appropriate in casual conversations among friends, but too informal for professional or formal contexts.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
When he told his buddy about the fender bender, he just shrugged and said, 'shit happens.'
LampPro Tip 3/3

Possible Offense

Can be considered vulgar or inappropriate; be cautious using it around people who might be offended.

Illustration for Possible Offense
She didn't realize her grandmother would be upset when she said, 'shit happens,' about the broken vase.
Visual representation of the word "Shit happens"

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