Be in the red

usgb
phrase

To have more money going out than coming in; to be in debt.

After a series of bad investments, the company is deep in the red.
Visual representation of "be in the red" - To have more money going out than coming in; to be in debt.

Often appears as...

  • deep in the red
  • plunge into the red

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be in the red"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Financial Trouble

Indicates a company or person is losing money and facing financial stress.

Illustration for Financial Trouble
Our bakery has been in the red since the new grocery store opened.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Bankruptcy

'In the red' means having debt, but not necessarily bankrupt or closed.

Illustration for Not Bankruptcy
Despite being in the red, the tech startup continued to operate.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Color Imagery

Red is often associated with danger or deficits in finance, hence the expression.

Illustration for Color Imagery
The ledger is full of red entries; we're in the red again this month.
Visual representation of the word "Be in the red"

Never forget "Be in the red"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top