Sign of the times
Meaning
An event, trend, or characteristic that exemplifies the current state of society or a particular period.
Origin
The phrase "sign of the times" originates directly from the New Testament, found in the Gospel of Matthew (16:3). In this passage, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and Sadducees for being able to predict the weather by observing the sky, yet failing to "discern the signs of the times"—meaning, they couldn't understand the spiritual and historical significance of the events unfolding around them. This powerful rebuke to observe and interpret contemporary occurrences for deeper meaning quickly became a resonant idiom. Over the centuries, it transitioned from its theological context into everyday language, used to comment on any notable development or characteristic indicative of the present age.
Examples
- The rapid rise of social media influencers is a clear sign of the times, reflecting shifts in how we consume information and entertainment.
- Many people choosing to work remotely instead of commuting to an office is a significant sign of the times for the modern workforce.