the writing is on the wall | see the writing on the wallidiomPart ofwallthe writing is on the wall | see the writing on the wallthe writing is on the wall | see the writing on the wall — idiomidiom1. To realize that something bad or difficult is likely to happen.1.idiomDefinitionTo realize that something bad or difficult is likely to happen.ExampleThe writing is on the wall for the old factory.Brian saw the writing on the wall and started looking for a new job.