The phrase "not what it was" can be expressed with many synonyms to convey a similar meaning. One synonym could be "changed beyond recognition". This implies that the subject has undergone significant alterations to the point where it is no longer recognizable or familiar. Another synonym could be "diminished in quality", which describes a situation where something that was once of high quality has now declined in its standards or performance. "Lacking in former glory" is also a good alternative, referring to something that was once grand or impressive, but has lost its former luster. Whatever the synonym used, it ultimately conveys the idea that something has undergone significant change and no longer resembles its past form.