know which way the wind is blowing

idiom

Meaning

Understand the situation (usually negative)

Origin

first recorded 16th c. disputed origin

From sailing and weather-lore — reading the wind to anticipate conditions; proverbial in English since at least Heywood's collection (1546).

Examples

SIMPLE

He waits to see which way the wind is blowing before choosing.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager is watching the sales numbers closely to know which way the wind is blowing for the company.

COMPLEX

Experienced politicians often wait to see which way the wind is blowing before they publicly support a controversial new law or policy.

Last updated June 7, 2026