Read the handwriting on the wall Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To recognize signs that something bad or inevitable is going to happen.
Usage & Nuances
This idiom is formal or literary and refers to seeing warning signs before trouble. It comes from a Biblical story. Usually used when negative consequences seem obvious, but not everyone notices them.
Example Sentences
She could read the handwriting on the wall and knew the company would close soon.
basic
If you read the handwriting on the wall, you will see the project is failing.
basic
The players could read the handwriting on the wall and knew they would lose the game.
basic
Most employees could read the handwriting on the wall and started looking for new jobs.
natural
You don’t need to be a genius to read the handwriting on the wall—the business is in trouble.
natural
After all the budget cuts, anyone could read the handwriting on the wall that layoffs were coming.
natural