in the red

Idioms  

1. 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]

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Example Sentences

After several days, it had taken root in the red coastal soil.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

The sharp fall in Pershing Square USA stock means that those who participated in the IPO are in the red.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

BAYSARIYEH, Lebanon — The coffin of Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil floated above the crowd, draped in the red, white and green of the Lebanese flag, with Khalil’s press vest and helmet balanced on top.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

U.S. stocks were in the red, mirroring losses in Asia and Europe.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

And just like that, the girl in the red coat and floppy hat was no longer a target.

From "Wringer" by Jerry Spinelli