in the red
Meaning
Operating at a loss; having a negative balance (especially in accounts).
Origin
From traditional bookkeeping where losses or debt were written in red ink (contrasted with black ink for profits).
Notes
Often used for businesses/finances to mean losing money or having a negative balance; businesslike but common in everyday speech. Opposite: in the black.
Examples
-
After the holiday season, my credit card balance was still in the red.
-
The restaurant has been in the red for months, so the owner is looking for investors.
-
If we keep spending like this, the project budget will end up in the red.
-
The company reported strong sales, but itβs still in the red because of last yearβs losses.
-
He realized his checking account was in the red after the rent payment cleared.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with a linking verb: βbe in the red.β Also common with βgo/fall/slip into the redβ and βget back/return to the black.β Mostly fixed phrasing.
Synonyms
- at a loss
- in deficit
- running a deficit
- unprofitable
Antonyms
- in the black
- profitable
- in surplus