in the red

Idioms and Phrases

In debt, as in Joshua can't keep track of funds, so half the time his company is in the red . This expression alludes to the bookkeeping practice of marking debits in red ink and credits in black. It survives even in the age of computerized accounts. So does the antonym, in the black , for being financially solvent or out of debt, as in Bill was happy to say they were in the black . [Early 1900s]

Example Sentences

A spurt of profitability followed, but this year is looking to be once again in the red.

From Los Angeles Times

England contrived to win the match twice over and then, with the clock deep in the red, lost it again on a fatal, final play.

From BBC

GOP incumbents are facing notable challenges in the red states of Texas and Nebraska.

From Los Angeles Times

The Rams need to be more disciplined, more consistent and better in the red zone.

From Los Angeles Times

The Cornhuskers then shrugged off a fourth-down sack in the red zone and an injury to Raiola to score another touchdown that shaved their deficit to seven points.

From Los Angeles Times