the writing on the wall
Meaning(s)
1. a clear sign that something is about to go badly or come to an end
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
see the writing on the wall and resign
Analysis
When you say 'the writing is on the wall' it means there is a clear or certain sign that something is about to go wrong or become difficult. Saying 'the writing is on the wall' is a prediction of bad luck or that something will no longer exist. This is an idiomatic expression and can be singular or plural.
Social Examples (Advance)
- The politician could see the writing on the wall and resigned from the party before their heavy defeat in the election.
- The writing was always on the wall that the development would not go ahead.
- The writing was on the wall from early on that he would never get into university.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- With the closure of the large factory, the writing is on the wall for many of the smaller businesses in the area.
- If the company's share price continues to drop, I think the writing will be on the wall for the CEO.