Example: The writing is on the wall; they will lose the game.
Definition
"The writing is on the wall" is an expression used to indicate that a particular outcome is inevitable or clearly predictable, often implying impending trouble or failure. For example, it suggests that the loss in the game is certain and visible from the circumstances.
Translations
las señales son claras
de tekenen zijn duidelijk
els senyals són clars
les signes sont clairs
die Zeichen stehen auf Sturm
Etymology
The phrase "the writing is on the wall" originates from the biblical story in the Book of Daniel, where mysterious writing appears on a palace wall, foretelling the fall of the Babylonian king. It has since come to symbolize a clear sign of impending doom or misfortune.
Learn to use this expression actively
"The writing is on the wall" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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