how it is

USAGE SUMMARY

"how it is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a current state or situation that hasn't changed. For example: "I don't understand why she's so upset. This is how it is, and there's no changing it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Is that how it is?

The New Yorker

How it is.

Independent

"It's how it is.

The New Yorker

That's how it is".

The New York Times - Sports

PL: That's how it is.

The New York Times

It's just how it is.

The New York Times

So that's how it is".

The New York Times - Sports

And that's how it is".

The New York Times

You know how it is.

The New York Times

"It is how it is".

The New York Times - Magazine

It's how it is abused".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "how it is" to describe a state or condition that currently exists, especially when explaining or accepting a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "how it is" when you need to describe how something should be done or how a process works; use it to define the state of something, not the method.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how it is" functions as a relative clause. It often serves to describe or accept a current situation or state of affairs, as supported by Ludwig, indicating its role in acknowledging reality or inevitability. The phrase is commonly employed to explain current circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

10%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "how it is" is a versatile phrase functioning as a relative clause that describes or acknowledges the current state of affairs. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While it is suitable for both formal and informal settings, it is essential to use it to define a state, and not the method. Alternatives like "the way things are" or "the current state of affairs" can be used for greater formality. The phrase serves primarily to convey acceptance, resignation, or explanation and is a common way to express the reality of a situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is what it is

A common idiom expressing acceptance of an unchangeable situation.

the way things are

Emphasizes acceptance of the current situation, focusing on the state of affairs.

the situation as it stands

Highlights the present condition, particularly in formal contexts.

the current state of affairs

More formal and emphasizes the existing circumstances.

that's the way it goes

Implies acceptance of an outcome, often with a sense of resignation.

such is life

Expresses acceptance of the difficulties and disappointments in life.

this is the reality

Focuses on acknowledging the truth or factual nature of a situation.

the nature of the beast

Suggests something is inherent and unavoidable.

what can you do

Expresses a sense of helplessness or inevitability.

the status quo

Focuses on the existing state without necessarily implying acceptance.

FAQs

How can I use "how it is" in a sentence?

You can use "how it is" to describe a current situation or state. For example: "I wish things were different, but that's "how it is"."

What's a more formal way to say "how it is"?

In formal contexts, you could use phrases like "the current state of affairs" or "the situation as it stands" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it ever incorrect to use "how it is"?

While generally correct, using "how it is" may be inappropriate if you're trying to describe a process or method, rather than a state. For instance, instead of "That's "how it is" assembled," say "That's "how it is assembled"."

What's the difference between "how it is" and "what it is"?

"How it is" describes the manner or state, while "what it is" identifies the thing or situation itself. "How it is" accepts a current reality, while "what it is" simply acknowledges something's existence or nature.