it is what it is

it is what it is

1. (literally, sometimes philosophical) This thing has its own distinct nature; this thing is itself.
   • 1690, John Locke, An Essay Concerning Human Understanding:

     That every thing has a real constitution, whereby it is what it is, and on which its sensible qualities depend, is past doubt.

2. (idiomatic) This circumstance is simply a fact and must be accepted or dealt with as it exists.
   • 1926, "La Semaine du Parlement," Time, 8 Mar.:

     I shall not criticize the Treaty of Versailles. It is a fact. It is what it is.

   • 2005, Viv Bernstein, "Stewart Poised to Head Onto Road Less Traveled," New York Times, 20 Nov. (retrieved 24 July 2008):

     I would prefer to start further up than where I am, but it is what it is and we'll just go out there and get to work.

• (This circumstance is simply a fact and must be accepted): so be it, that's life

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