February is the month of romance, which means it is often associated with the color red. To celebrate, we have put together a list of English idioms with the word “red.” As you will see, there isn’t really any romance involved in these expressions! But they are excellent examples of phrases using this word.
English Idioms with “Red”
A red flag
Definition: A warning of a bad or dangerous situation.
Example: She was 10 minutes late to her interview for this job. That’s a red flag to me.
To be/get/become red in the face
Definition: To be embarrassed and blush (sometimes, your face becomes red as a result).
Example: She got so red in the face when the professor asked her a question and she didn’t know the answer.
To get caught red-handed
Definition: To get caught in an illegal or unethical action.
Example: My sister tried to wear my jacket without asking me, but I came home early and saw her wearing it. I caught her red-handed!
Redeye
Definition: An overnight flight.
Example: I am taking the redeye to New York.
Red herring
Definition: Something unimportant or irrelevant that distracts from a real problem.
Example: The politician used the recent increase in crime as a red herring to distract from other issues, like his unlawful campaign spending.
Red-hot
Definition: Wanted by many.
Example: These shoes are sold out in stores and online. They are red-hot right now!
Red light
Definition: A message or signal to stop.
Example: We didn’t have enough money for the project, so we gave it the red light.
