A straw in the wind

usgb
idiom

A small hint or sign of what might happen in the future.

The company's decision to stop production is a straw in the wind suggesting that they may be going bankrupt.
Visual representation of "a straw in the wind" - A small hint or sign of what might happen in the future.

Often appears as...

  • recognize a straw in the wind
  • see a straw in the wind

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a straw in the wind"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Subtle Clues

Use 'a straw in the wind' to describe barely noticeable hints about future events or decisions.

Illustration for Subtle Clues
His reluctance to discuss plans was a straw in the wind for the project's cancellation.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Figurative Speech

'A straw in the wind' is figurative for small signs, not literal straws or wind.

Illustration for Figurative Speech
The manager's hesitation was a straw in the wind, hinting at the merger.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Prediction Tool

It suggests you are using a sign to predict something before it's confirmed.

Illustration for Prediction Tool
The sudden quietness in the office was a straw in the wind that layoffs were coming.
Visual representation of the word "A straw in the wind"

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