Definition of"red flag" in English
Find meaning of red flag in English and hundreds of other languages worldwide
AI-generated content • For reference only
Word definitions are provided by AI providers (OpenAI, Claude, etc.) and are for reference only. This is not an official dictionary and may contain errors. Please consult authoritative dictionary sources for the most accurate information.
red flag
Definitions
Noun
Verb
Examples
"His sudden change in behavior was a major red flag for his friends."
His sudden change in behavior was a major red flag for his friends.
"The auditor decided to red flag the unusual transactions in the company's accounts."
The auditor decided to red flag the unusual transactions in the company's accounts.
Synonyms
Etymology
Originates from the literal use of a red flag as a signal of danger, stop, or revolution. Its use as a general warning signal dates back to the 17th century, where a plain red flag was used as a symbol of defiance or a call to battle. Over time, it evolved into a metaphorical expression for any sign of danger or trouble.
Cultural Notes
In English-speaking cultures, 'red flag' is widely used metaphorically across various domains, including personal relationships (e.g., 'trust issues are a red flag in a partnership'), finance (e.g., 'unexplained expenses are a red flag for fraud'), health (e.g., 'persistent fatigue can be a red flag for underlying conditions'), and business, to indicate a significant warning or a reason for concern that warrants closer investigation. It implies that something is amiss and should not be ignored.