what's what
Precisely what the situation really is or what the facts truly are; the true state of things.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Ask the manager because she knows what's what.”
“After working here for ten years, he finally understands what's what regarding the company's secret policies.”
“The seasoned diplomat navigated the complex negotiations with ease, as he alone possessed the insight to discern what's what in the volatile political landscape.”
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ain't what it used to was
Is not what it used to be; (expressing nostalgia).
- 02
come what may
In spite of anything that might happen; whatever may occur.
- 03
do exactly what it says on the tin
To do what is described or what one would expect, with no further explanation needed.
- 04
do what
An intensified version of what? or huh?, expressing surprise or lack of comprehension
- 05
get what one asked for
Synonym of get what's coming to one.
- 06
get what's coming to one
To experience the consequences of one's actions.
- 07
give someone what-for
To admonish or berate; to speak angrily at somebody.
- 08
give what for
To scold; to punish, especially verbally.
Last updated August 10, 2026