Question 1

What does "the writing is on the wall" mean?

Accepted Answer

Clear signs indicate that something unpleasant or disastrous is going to happen.

Question 2

How do you use "the writing is on the wall" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

With falling sales and high debt, the writing was on the wall for the company.

Question 3

Is "the writing is on the wall" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"the writing is on the wall" is formal — used mainly in written or official contexts. A biblical reference to Belshazzar's feast; used to describe unmistakable warning signs of coming trouble.