es ist, wie es ist
The English phrase 'it is what it is' can be translated into German as es ist, wie es ist.
The phrase es ist, wie es ist is used to express resignation or acceptance of an unchangeable, often unpleasant, situation.
Meaning: this thing has its own nature (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase es ist, wie es ist literally translates to 'it is, as it is'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The variation So isch's eben. is used in southern Germany, Austria and parts of Switzerland.
Did you know?
- In German culture, expressions of resignation like es ist, wie es ist are often linked to the concept of 'Schicksalsergebenheit', or a stoic submission to fate.
- The word wie is a cognate of the English word 'why', originating from a fossilized instrumental case of a Proto-Germanic word for 'who' or 'what'.
- Although es ist, wie es ist is grammatically correct, using it in a very formal setting might sound slightly philosophical or even poetic rather than just casual resignation.
Examples in context
- Es ist, wie es ist. Wir müssen uns darauf konzentrieren, eine Lösung zu finden.It is what it is. We have to focus on finding a solution.
- So ist das eben. Da kann man nichts machen. Lass uns einfach das Beste daraus machen!It is what it is. There's nothing you can do about it. Let's just make the best of it!
- Man kann es nicht ändern, es ist, wie es ist.You can't change it, it is what it is.
Example conversation
Lukas and Sarah are discussing a cancelled outdoor event due to rain.
- LukasDas Wetter ist wirklich schrecklich heute.The weather is really terrible today.
- SarahJa, aber es ist, wie es ist.Yes, but it is what it is.
- LukasDu hast recht, Sarah.You are right, Sarah.
- SarahWir müssen das Beste daraus machen.We have to make the best of it.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries es, wie, CC BY-SA 4.0.
