1.
look of the sky; movement of clouds
The appearance of the sky based on how clouds are moving, especially as an indication of approaching weather.
2.
way things are going; signs; outlook; developments
Figuratively, the direction a situation is heading, especially when it seems to be turning unfavorable.
Usage
The figurative sense (sense 2) is extremely common and often appears with 怪しい (suspicious, ominous). The expression 雲行きが怪しい can refer to either literal weather or figurative situations going badly.
Common collocations
- 雲行きが怪しい (the sky / situation looks threatening)
- 雲行きが変わる (the sky / situation changes)
- 雲行きを見る (to watch the sky / assess the situation)