that's the way life is

proverb

The phrase "that's the way life is" reflects a resigned acceptance of life's inherent challenges and unpredictability, often used to console or provide perspective.

🇺🇸 US Voice:

🇬🇧 UK Voice:

Definition

B2General

(informal, idiomatic)An expression of acceptance towards the unpredictable and uncontrollable nature of life.

Example

When she didn't get the job, she shrugged and said, 'that's the way life is.'
He missed the train, but he just sighed and remarked, 'that's the way life is.'

B2Emotional Support

(informal, consolatory)A phrase used to comfort someone by acknowledging that certain difficulties are a normal part of life.

Example

After the breakup, his friend told him, 'that's the way life is; you'll find someone better.'
When her project failed, her colleague said, 'that's the way life is; you just have to try again.'

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "that's the way life is":

so is life it is what it is about that life as it is