red zone

American  

[red zohn] / ˈrɛd ˌzoʊn /

noun

1. Football.  an unofficial term for the area at either end of the field between the 20-yard line and the goal line, considered critical for defense.

   The team’s top-notch defense has allowed opponents to score a touchdown on only 39 percent of trips inside the red zone.

2. an area colored red on a dial or other instrument of measurement, alerting the viewer to unsafe conditions when the needle or indicator enters it.

   To avoid engine damage, do not run the engine with the tachometer needle in the red zone!

3. a restricted area, sometimes specially labeled or marked with red.

   Do not enter the red zone without donning proper PPE.

4. any range of conditions considered unsafe or likely to generate serious problems, such as for physical or financial health.

   Watch that you don’t end up in the red zone with all that stress and so little sleep.

   Some countries are so far into the red zone with debt that marginal changes in repayment terms make no difference.

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Etymology

Origin of red zone

First recorded in 1940–45; 1970–75 red zone for def. 1

Example Sentences

Again, USC mounted a lengthy drive, only to stall on the edge of the red zone.

From Los Angeles Times

Its red zone touchdown rate plummets 25%, while its third-down conversion rate drops 16% on the road.

From Los Angeles Times

Gronowski has, however, been a weapon on the ground — and especially in the red zone.

From Los Angeles Times

But the three-time All-Pro caught six passes for 77 yards and continued his outstanding play in the red zone with his sixth touchdown in the last three games.

From Los Angeles Times

“He’s been doing it for a long time in the league, especially down in the red zone,” Stafford said.

From Los Angeles Times