It is what it is means the situation can't be changed, so you accept it and move on. We missed the last train. It is what it is; let's find a hotel. The phrase is casual and calm. But when someone shares a real problem, show sympathy first: a bare it is what it is can sound like I don't care.
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unwelcome fact + It is what it is.; It is what it is, but + next step
- We missed the last train. It is what it is; let's find somewhere to stay.
- The venue is smaller than we hoped, but it is what it is.
- It is what it is, but we can still make the evening enjoyable.
What changed
First versionThe tickets are non-refundable. It is what is it.
RevisionThe tickets are non-refundable. It is what it is.
The familiar question what is it? slips into the middle by itself. But this isn't a question, it's a statement, so after what the normal word order follows: what it is.
So be it is a decision to accept a condition: if we must wait, so be it. It is what it is comments on something that has already happened. Never mind means no big deal after a small setback. To support someone, try: That sounds really hard.
Your turn
We cannot change yesterday's result. It is what ___; let's focus on the next match.
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it is — After what comes a statement, not a question, so it's it is. Yesterday's result can't be changed, and the speaker suggests focusing on the next match.
Describe a small problem that can't be fixed now. Add It is what it is and suggest what to do next.
The café is closed. It is what it is; let's try the bakery across the road.
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