| it beats me (how, why etc.) |
(informal) I cannot explain, understand, accept something |
It beats me how anyone can act in such an irresponsible way. |
| it makes no odds |
(informal) it makes no difference, it does not matter |
The price is exactly the same whether you travel on a weekday or at the weekend, so it makes no odds which day you choose to travel on. |
| it's a bit off |
(informal) it is not a fair or correct thing to do things |
I think it's a bit off, pushing all this work on me while he goes off enjoying himself. |
| it's a wonder (that) |
it is very surprising (that) |
I forgot to lock the flat. It's a wonder that it nobody broke in. |
| it's anyone's/anybody's guess |
it is not possible to predict what will happen |
'Who do you think will be chosen?' 'At the moment, it's anybody's guess. All the candidates have equal chances.' |
| it serves you etc. right |
it is a just punishment |
'Tom failed his exam yesterday.' 'Well, it serves him right. He's a lazy student.' |
| as it is |
as the present / existing situation is |
'How long will she have to stay in bed, doctor?' 'Well, as it is, a week at least.' |
| as it were |
one might say, one might describe it this way |
The conference in London was very relaxing, and my wife accompanied me, so it was rather like an extra holiday, as it were. |
| it can't be helped |
it is unfortunate, but no one can change it |
'How depressing! It rains every day of our holiday.' 'Well, it can't be helped. We'll just have to make the best of it.' |
