Handwriting on the wall Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A sign or warning that something bad or inevitable is going to happen.
Usage & Nuances
This is a formal and somewhat old-fashioned idiom, rooted in a biblical story. Often used in business or personal contexts to signal obvious signs of trouble ahead. It's not used for positive predictions; it only refers to negative outcomes.
Example Sentences
Many workers saw the handwriting on the wall before the company closed.
basic
When sales dropped, the store owner saw the handwriting on the wall.
basic
People ignored the handwriting on the wall, and the problem got worse.
basic
It was clear the company couldn't survive—the handwriting on the wall was everywhere.
natural
She resigned as soon as she saw the handwriting on the wall about the upcoming layoffs.
natural
Even after the bad news, some people refused to admit the handwriting on the wall.
natural