that's how it goes

Meaning

1. Editorial67% of films

   Used to say this is the way something is done, said, or proceeds, often while showing the steps or recalling the wording.

   I think that's how it goes, something like that.

   -Mom! Mom, stop! -That's how it goes, right?

2. Editorial33% of films

   Used to accept that events turn out a certain way, often with a resigned shrug that nothing else was to be expected.

   Well, I suppose that's how it goes.

In the movies · 3

• Well, I suppose that's how it goes.Michael Collins1996
• -Mom! Mom, stop! -That's how it goes, right?Hillbilly Elegy2020
• I think that's how it goes, something like that.A Star Is Born2018
• I think that's how it goes. Something like that.You've Got Mail1998
• That's how it usually goes.The Boys in the Boat2023
• That's usually how it goes, honey.Anyone But You2023
• I mean, they-they invest the capital, then they get the reward, and that's how it goes.Air2023
• Yeah. No. That's not how it goes.The Lion King2019

Learn it in full scenes

• A Star Is Born2018
  • Jack Crashes the Drag Bar
  • Jackson Meets Ally at the Drag Bar
  • Jackson Tells Ally She's Talented

More everyday phrases

• i owe you one
• let me make it up to you
• is there a problem
• this is ridiculous
• what's the problem
• just like that
• to make a long story short
• time to go
• i didn't do it
• i wish i knew
• you have to trust me
• i hear you