Definition of"red flag" in Chinese
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red flag
Definitions
Noun
Verb
Examples
"他前后矛盾的说法是一个危险信号。"
His inconsistent story was a red flag.
"公司利润的持续下降给投资者敲响了警钟，这是一个明确的红旗。"
The company's continuous decline in profits raised a red flag for investors, it's a clear warning sign.
"我们需要立即把这个可疑的交易标记出来，因为它可能是一个红旗。"
We need to immediately red-flag this suspicious transaction, as it might be a red flag.
"在一段关系中，控制欲强的行为通常被视为一个红旗。"
In a relationship, controlling behavior is often seen as a red flag.
Synonyms
Etymology
The idiom 'red flag' originates from the literal use of a red flag as a warning or signal of danger. Historically, red flags have been used in military contexts (e.g., signaling no quarter), maritime settings (indicating danger or quarantine), and sports (e.g., auto racing to stop a race due to danger). This literal use then extended metaphorically to any sign of trouble or a warning.
Cultural Notes
While 'red flag' in English commonly refers to a warning sign or indicator of danger, its direct Chinese translation '红旗' (hóngqí) holds significant and often positive cultural connotations in China. '红旗' primarily symbolizes revolution, socialism, victory, or excellence (e.g., the national flag, '红旗渠' Red Flag Canal, '红旗轿车' Red Flag car). Therefore, when translating the English idiom 'red flag' (meaning a warning sign) into Chinese, it is more appropriate and common to use terms like '警示信号' (jǐngshì xìnhào - warning signal), '危险信号' (wēixiǎn xìnhào - danger signal), or '预警' (yùjǐng - early warning) to avoid confusion with the literal and symbolic meanings of '红旗' in Chinese culture. The 'red flag warning' referenced in the provided text refers to a specific type of weather warning, not the general idiomatic use.