that’s life —(also: such is life) that’s the way things happen (said with the implication that unpleasant events occur occasionally):
- It’s a pity Colin and Rowena got divorced, but then that’s life!
this is the life—(exclam.) used as an admiring comment on a comfortable, enjoyable, and carefree existence:
- A sandy beach, plenty of hot sun, lots of nice people! This is the life!