Memes are everywhere in today’s digital world, and one that has taken the internet by storm is the “it is what it is” meme. This simple yet powerful phrase has become a popular way to express a wide range of emotions, from resignation to acceptance to anger. In this article, we will explore the origin and popularity of the “it is what it is” meme, and what it says about our culture today.
1. What is the “it is what it is” meme?
The “it is what it is” meme is a phrase that has become popular on social media and other digital platforms. The phrase is typically used to express a sense of resignation or acceptance in the face of a difficult or unpleasant situation. The meme often features an image or video of someone or something that embodies the sentiment of the phrase, such as a person shrugging their shoulders or a cartoon character with a resigned expression on their face.
2. The origin of the meme
The origin of the “it is what it is” meme is unclear, but the phrase itself has been around for decades. The earliest recorded use of the phrase dates back to the 1940s, when it was used in a philosophical sense to describe the idea of acceptance and resignation in the face of the inherent limitations of human existence.
3. How the meme became popular
The “it is what it is” meme began to gain traction in the early 2010s, as social media and other digital platforms became more widespread. The phrase was often used in response to news or events that were perceived as negative or disappointing, such as a sports team losing a game or a politician making a controversial statement. The meme quickly became popular, as people found it to be a simple yet powerful way to express their feelings of resignation and acceptance.
4. The meaning behind the meme
The “it is what it is” meme can be interpreted in a number of different ways, depending on the context in which it is used. At its core, however, the meme is about accepting things as they are, rather than trying to change them or fight against them. This can be seen as a form of wisdom or maturity, as it requires a certain level of emotional detachment and acceptance of the limitations of the human experience.
5. Why the meme resonates with people
The “it is what it is” meme resonates with people for a number of different reasons. For some, it is a way to express a sense of resignation or acceptance in the face of difficult circumstances. For others, it is a way to acknowledge the inherent limitations of the human experience and to find peace in that acceptance. Still, others find the meme to be a humorous way to express their feelings of frustration or disappointment.
6. The impact of the meme on our culture
The “it is what it is” meme has had a significant impact on our culture, both online and offline. On the one hand, it has become a ubiquitous phrase that is used to express a wide range of emotions and attitudes. It has also become a symbol of resignation and acceptance, and is often used in response to events or situations that are outside of our control.
At the same time, the meme has been criticized for promoting a passive attitude towards life and for discouraging people from taking action to change their circumstances. Some have argued that the meme is a symptom of a larger cultural trend towards complacency and resignation, and that it encourages people to accept things as they are rather than striving for improvement.
7. The future of the meme
The “it is what it is” meme shows no signs of slowing down, and is likely to continue to be a popular way of expressing a wide range of emotions and attitudes. As our culture continues to evolve, it is possible that the meaning and significance of the meme will change as well. It is also possible that new memes will emerge that build on the popularity and success of the “it is what it is” meme.
8. Examples of the “it is what it is” meme
There are countless examples of the “it is what it is” meme online, ranging from simple images to complex videos and animations. Some of the most popular examples of the meme include images of celebrities and politicians with resigned expressions on their faces, as well as cartoons and other illustrations that capture the sentiment of the phrase.
9. Alternatives to the “it is what it is” meme
While the “it is what it is” meme is a popular way of expressing a wide range of emotions and attitudes, it is not the only option available. Other popular memes and catchphrases include “yolo” (you only live once), “no worries,” and “keep calm and carry on.” Each of these phrases has its own unique meaning and significance, and can be used in different contexts to express different emotions.
10. How to make your own “it is what it is” meme
Making your own “it is what it is” meme is easy and can be done using a variety of online tools and platforms. Some popular options include meme generators and photo editing software, which allow you to add text and other elements to images and videos. When creating your own meme, be sure to consider the context in which it will be used and the emotions and attitudes you want to express.
11. Tips for using the “it is what it is” meme effectively
If you want to use the “it is what it is” meme effectively, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to use it in the appropriate context and in a way that is relevant to the situation or event. Second, consider the tone and attitude you want to convey, and choose images and other elements that capture that sentiment. Finally, be aware of the potential impact of the meme on others, and use it responsibly and respectfully.
12. The psychology of the “it is what it is” meme
The “it is what it is” meme has been the subject of a number of psychological studies, which have explored its impact on our emotions, attitudes, and behaviors. Some researchers have argued that the meme promotes a sense of resignation and acceptance that can be beneficial for mental health, while others have suggested that it encourages passivity and discourages people from taking action to change their circumstances.
13. Conclusion
The “it is what it is” meme is a powerful and versatile phrase that has become a ubiquitous part of our culture. It has been used to express a wide range of emotions and attitudes, from resignation and acceptance to frustration and disappointment. While some have criticized the meme for promoting a passive attitude towards life, others have argued that it can be a useful tool for coping with difficult situations and emotions.
As our culture continues to evolve, it is likely that the meaning and significance of the “it is what it is” meme will continue to change as well. Whether it will remain a popular catchphrase for years to come or eventually be replaced by new memes and expressions, only time will tell.
FAQs
What is the origin of the “it is what it is” meme?
The origin of the “it is what it is” meme is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 2000s. The phrase itself has been in use for much longer, and has been attributed to a variety of sources over the years.
What are some popular examples of the “it is what it is” meme?
Some popular examples of the “it is what it is” meme include images of celebrities and politicians with resigned expressions on their faces, as well as cartoons and other illustrations that capture the sentiment of the phrase.
Is the “it is what it is” meme still popular?
Yes, the “it is what it is” meme is still very popular and is used to express a wide range of emotions and attitudes.
What are some alternatives to the “it is what it is” meme?
Some alternatives to the “it is what it is” meme include “yolo” (you only live once), “no worries,” and “keep calm and carry on.”
Can the “it is what it is” meme be used in a professional context?
While the “it is what it is” meme is primarily used in informal contexts, it can be used in a professional context if used appropriately and in the right context. However, it is important to be aware of the potential impact of the meme on others and to use it responsibly and respectfully.
