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Phrase(s): read the handwriting on the wall
Fig. to anticipate what is going to happen by observing small hints and clues. (See also see the (hand)writing on the wall.) • I know I am going to be fired. I can read the handwriting on the wall. • Can’t you read the handwriting on the wall? Can’t you see what they are planning?
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs