In the red

Origin: The idiom "in the red" originates from traditional accounting practices where financial records were manually kept, and losses were recorded in red ink to easily distinguish them from profits, which were noted in black ink. This method dates back to at least the 19th century. Being "in the red" thus indicated that a business was operating at a loss or had negative financial status. Over time, the phrase entered common language and is now widely used to describe any situation where expenses exceed income, signifying financial trouble.

Examples

• After the unexpected expenses, our company has been in the red for the past two quarters.
• Despite their best efforts, the startup remained in the red, unable to break even.
• The restaurant found itself in the red after a series of unfortunate health inspections.
• Her personal finances have been in the red since she lost her job last year.
• The non-profit organization has been struggling to stay afloat, constantly in the red.
• Due to the economic downturn, many small businesses are now in the red.
• The project went significantly over budget, leaving the department in the red.
• Investors were worried when the quarterly report showed the company deep in the red.
• His lavish lifestyle has left him constantly in the red, relying heavily on credit.
• The holiday season usually pulls them out of the red, but this year sales were disappointing.