it is what it is
4 synonyms for it is what it is, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Phrase — Said to accept an unwelcome situation that cannot be changed, signalling that there is no point complaining about it further.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use it is what it is
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
well, it is what it is
at the end of the day, it is what it is
Informal spoken English; very common, often criticised as a cliche.
Frequently asked questions
Is 'it is what it is' rude?
It depends on delivery. Said about your own bad luck it sounds stoical and unbothered; said to someone else about their problem it can sound dismissive, as though you cannot be bothered to help. Avoid it when someone wants sympathy.
What can I say instead of 'it is what it is'?
For acceptance, try 'there's nothing we can do about it now' or 'we'll work with what we've got'. If you actually mean the decision is final, say that plainly instead, since the phrase often hides a reason the listener wants to hear.
Is it a cliche?
Yes, and a heavily used one, especially in sport and business. It works fine in speech but looks lazy in writing, where a specific statement of what cannot be changed reads better.
