shit happens

idiomatic phrase

vulgar

—used to say that bad things happen as part of life and cannot be prevented

I have always understood that bad things can happen to all people in this chaotic universe, regardless of individual beliefs or accomplishments. In other words, shit happens.

—Margarita Korol

"If your heel breaks, there's nothing you can do, just smile. Shit happens!" said the supermodel [Cindy Crawford], who attended the Tom Ford show Wednesday evening …

—Stephanie Chan

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1978, in the meaning defined above