Significance of What is it
In South Asia, the phrase "What is it" signifies a question posed to comprehend the source of someone's emotional distress, reflecting a desire to understand the cause of crying. Historically in India, "What is it" represents the insignificance of personal recognition or fame. The focus is on the importance of the actions themselves rather than who is performing them.
Synonyms: What
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
The concept of What is it in local and regional sources
"What is it" in this context encompasses two meanings. First, it represents a question about the cause of crying, seeking understanding. Second, it signifies the irrelevance of personal recognition, focusing on the significance of actions rather than fame.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) An expression that shows the irrelevance of personal recognition or fame, emphasizing the significance of the actions themselves.[1]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) What is it was a question repeatedly asked by those who encountered the crying, seeking to understand the cause of the emotional display.[2]
Classical concept of 'What is it'
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) This is a question expressing confusion or concern, indicating a need to understand the cause of a disturbance.[3]