Something is what it is
phrase
It implies the unchangeable nature or inherent characteristics of something or someone.
He is never going to change, he is what he is.
Often appears as...
- accept as it is
- life is what it is
Usage tips
Idiomatic,Colloquial
phrase
It refers to accepting a situation or reality exactly as it is, typically when it's unpleasant or not ideal.
I know the circumstances are bad, but it is what it is. We have to deal with it.
Often appears as...
- the truth is what it is
- pain is what it is
Usage tips
Idiomatic,Colloquial
phrase
It means that something is exactly as it appears to be or as it's represented.
The painting looks like a photo, it simply is what it is.
Often appears as...
- art is what it is
- product is what it is
Usage tips
Idiomatic,Colloquial
phrase
It implies the unchangeable nature or inherent characteristics of something or someone.
He is never going to change, he is what he is.
Often appears as...
- accept as it is
- life is what it is
Usage tips
Idiomatic,Colloquial
phrase
It refers to accepting a situation or reality exactly as it is, typically when it's unpleasant or not ideal.
I know the circumstances are bad, but it is what it is. We have to deal with it.
Often appears as...
- the truth is what it is
- pain is what it is
Usage tips
Idiomatic,Colloquial
phrase
It means that something is exactly as it appears to be or as it's represented.
The painting looks like a photo, it simply is what it is.
Often appears as...
- art is what it is
- product is what it is
Usage tips
Idiomatic,Colloquial
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Personal Acceptance
Use the phrase to express accepting someone's unchangeable traits rather than trying to change them.
He may be stubborn, but he is what he is.
Pro Tip 2/3No Judgment
The phrase often suggests not judging but recognizing reality as it exists.
Her fashion sense is unique; it is what it is.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoiding Excuses
Indicates that one shouldn't make excuses for something that's simply true to its nature.
I know it's a tough job, but it is what it is.
Pro Tip 1/3Personal Acceptance
Use the phrase to express accepting someone's unchangeable traits rather than trying to change them.
He may be stubborn, but he is what he is.
Pro Tip 2/3No Judgment
The phrase often suggests not judging but recognizing reality as it exists.
Her fashion sense is unique; it is what it is.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoiding Excuses
Indicates that one shouldn't make excuses for something that's simply true to its nature.
I know it's a tough job, but it is what it is.
Pro Tip 1/3Personal Acceptance
Use the phrase to express accepting someone's unchangeable traits rather than trying to change them.
He may be stubborn, but he is what he is.
Pro Tip 2/3No Judgment
The phrase often suggests not judging but recognizing reality as it exists.
Her fashion sense is unique; it is what it is.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoiding Excuses
Indicates that one shouldn't make excuses for something that's simply true to its nature.
I know it's a tough job, but it is what it is.
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