The phrase "writings on the wall" is spelled with the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) symbols [ˈraɪtɪŋz ɒn ði wɔːl]. The "wri" sound is represented by the IPA symbol /raɪ/, which is the combination of the "r" sound and the "ai" diphthong. The "ti" sound is represented by the single letter /t/, and the "ng" sound at the end of "writing" is represented by the /ŋ/ symbol. The "s" sound in "writings" is represented by the letter /z/, and the "o" sound in "on" is represented by the symbol /ɒ/. The full phrase is pronounced as "rye-tings on thee wawl".
"Writings on the wall" is a phrase that refers to clear signs or indications that something is about to happen, often foreshadowing an impending significant change or outcome. It metaphorically suggests that the evidence or clues are so apparent that they can be likened to words written on a wall, making them impossible to ignore or misinterpret.
This expression is believed to have originated from the biblical story of Belshazzar's Feast, as described in the Book of Daniel. According to the story, during a grand feast, mysterious handwriting appeared on a wall in the Babylonian king's palace. The appearance of these words, often referred to as "the writing on the wall," was interpreted as a divine message foretelling the king's downfall and the end of his kingdom, which eventually came to pass.
In contemporary language, the phrase "writings on the wall" is commonly used to suggest that impending change or imminent calamity is evident and cannot be avoided or denied. It implies that the signs indicating a particular outcome are so evident that trying to ignore them would be fruitless. Additionally, the phrase can convey a sense of inevitability, suggesting that the predicted event or consequence is bound to occur regardless of efforts to prevent it. Overall, "writings on the wall" serves as a powerful metaphor to underscore the significance of visible and unmistakable signs that signal an impending transformation or outcome.