red flag

Definition of red flagnext
as in red light
something that tells of approaching danger or risk the résumé she accidentally left on the office printer was a red flag that she was planning to quit

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of red flag The verdict left many asking what tech addiction is, exactly, and whether their own use of tech should raise red flags. Kristin Stoller, Fortune, 28 Mar. 2026 The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR) has issued a red flag warning for 72 counties across Minnesota. March 28, CBS News, 28 Mar. 2026 That said, the presence of companies concerned with defense, security, and sensitive radar systems among the apparent ultimate targets raises obvious red flags. Jessica Klein, PC Magazine, 28 Mar. 2026 But in science, tidiness is always a mild red flag. Paul M. Sutter, Scientific American, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for red flag
Recent Examples of Synonyms for red flag
Noun
  • This powerful skin care device combines red light therapy, galvanic current, facial massage and therapeutic warmth to treat various skin concerns, including fine lines, puffiness and dark circles.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Cars waiting behind red lights could be heard honking at pedestrians in support.
    Alex Gladden, Oklahoman, 28 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Iran, meanwhile, is issuing stark warnings.
    Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High wind warning.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Dozens showed up to the Capitol on Tuesday, where advocates made speeches and attendees held signs and flags.
    Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Dozens flocked to City Hall, wielding signs and voicing pleas for Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty, Sacramento City Manager Maraskeshia Smith and other council members to halt construction.
    Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 1 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Red flag.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/red%20flag. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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