noʊ wɪtʃ weɪ ðə wɪnd ɪz ˈbloʊɪŋ
Nature & Weather
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- To understand the direction of the wind
What does "know which way the wind is blowing" mean?
- To understand the current trends or situation
- To be aware of how things are developing
Examples
- Good politicians know which way the wind is blowing.
- You need to know which way the wind is blowing in the industry.
- She always knows which way the wind is blowing at the office.
Origin
From sailing—knowing wind direction was essential for navigation. Applied to understanding trends and situations.
How to use it
Implies political or social awareness. Can suggest opportunism or wisdom.
Similar expressions
read the room
understand trends
be aware of developments
Opposites
be oblivious
be out of touch
Related idioms
- out of the blue
Unexpectedly; without warning
- beat around the bush
To avoid talking about the main point of a conversation
- every cloud has a silver lining
There is something positive in every negative situation
- go with the flow
To accept things as they are and adapt accordingly
- once in a blue moon
Very rarely; almost never
- tip of the iceberg
A small visible part of a much larger hidden problem
Use it in a practice answer
Try "know which way the wind is blowing" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.