1428 Sign of the times - English Idioms

Explanation

Something (often negative or indicative of change) that is characteristic of the current period or era.

Origin

Popularized by the biblical phrase sign of the times (Matthew 16:3), referring to indicators of future events or the state of the world.
It's used more broadly now to comment on trends, events, or attitudes perceived as representative of the present day, often with a sense of resignation, criticism, or observation about societal shifts.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

That's just how it is now.
Welcome to [Current Year/Decade]. (Often used sarcastically)
Story of today.

More Formal:

Indicative of the current zeitgeist. (Zeitgeist: spirit of the age)

Situational Appropriateness

Appropriate in most situations, from casual conversation to more formal discussions about societal trends.
The tone might vary depending on the context (e.g., critical, observational, resigned).

Misunderstanding Warnings

Relatively straightforward idiom. Ensure learners understand it refers to characteristics of the *current* era, not just any sign.

Examples

Everyone staring at their phones instead of talking? It's a sign of the times.
High security at airports is just a sign of the times.
Seeing electric car charging stations everywhere is a sign of the times.

Dialogue

Person A: Did you see that store downtown closed? It's being replaced by another vape shop.

Person B: Really? Wow, that's a sign of the times, isn't it?

Person A: Definitely. Seems like small businesses are struggling.

Response Patterns

Yeah, it really is.
Tell me about it. (Agreement)
Things have certainly changed.
Sad, isn't it? (If the sign is negative)
Progress, I guess? (If the sign is related to change/technology)

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After someone remarks It's a sign of the times:

Often followed by shared agreement or further examples: Yeah, you see it everywhere now.
Discussion about the implications of the trend: Where do you think things are heading?
Reflection on how things used to be: I remember when...

Conversation Starter

Yes. Observing something and commenting That's a sign of the times can open a discussion about current trends or societal changes.

Intonation

Fairly neutral, often with a slight emphasis on sign and times.
Can carry a tone of resignation, observation, or sometimes disapproval.
It's just a SIGN of the TIMES.

Generation Differences

Understood and used by most adult generations.
Often used by older generations commenting on changes they've witnessed.

Regional Variations

Widely used across English-speaking regions.

Short end of the stick

🎲 Small talk

[1428] Sign of the times