Along with "thrown under the bus", "it is what it is" is one of my most despised expressions, from this century or any other.

When I make a comment about an issue I'm passionate about, and someone responds with "It is what...", it sounds like retreat, throwing ones hands up, folding up like a two-dollar suitcase.

It isN'T what it is!

Raise the bar!!

Thank you. ;)