The phrase "what it isn't" has a specific usage and meaning. It is a way of emphasizing what something is not, but its grammatical correctness depends on context. For example, in a sentence like "If anything, it would be yellow, which it isn't," the correct form is "which it isn't" rather than "what it isn't." Using "what it isn't" in such a context would be grammatically incorrect. "Which it isn't" properly connects the clauses, while "what" in that phrase would function differently, often requiring a standalone sentence or different structure. Additionally, "What it isNt" (with a capital N) is a coined term by Mark Gonzales around 2000, expressing the idea "It may not be what you expected, but just try to appreciate it." It is also the title of a Japan-exclusive collaborative album by Mark Gonzales and Tommy Guerrero that was created for a street art event in Tokyo in 2001. The album and term embody the idea of appreciating something beyond initial expectations, rooted in skate culture and art.
There is also a street fashion brand from Japan named "What it isNt" that represents high-quality streetwear with global shipping available.
In summary:
- "What it isn't" as a phrase emphasizing negation is context-dependent and usually "which it isn't" is more grammatically correct for relative clauses.
- "What it isNt" is a coined artistic term and a cultural reference in street art and music.
- It is also used as a brand name in street fashion.
