# one of those things

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/one-of-those-things
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An unfortunate, but unavoidable, event.

## Examples

- The train was late, but it is just one of those things.
- I missed my flight because of the heavy traffic, but I suppose it is just one of those things.
- Despite our meticulous planning, the sudden storm ruined the outdoor event, yet we accepted it as one of those things that simply cannot be controlled.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.