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

Relevance

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 An acquisition right before a sale creates integration risk and raises business buyer red flags. Lien De Pau, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026 Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 19 June 2026 But last week, a Texas judge decided to wave away a pretty clear red flag. Jemele Hill, The Atlantic, 19 June 2026 There are red flag fire warnings across Northern California, Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Utah and Arizona, according to the National Weather Service. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for red flag
Recent Examples of Synonyms for red flag
Noun
  • San Joaquin County officials have confirmed the first detection of West Nile virus this season, sparking warnings for residents to protect themselves and prepare their homes.
    Carmela Karcher, CBS News, 23 June 2026
  • The only public indication of an impending launch was the release of a warning for pilots and sailors to steer clear of the rocket’s flight path.
    Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • Police said there were no signs of trauma or foul play and homicide detectives are investigating.
    Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 June 2026
  • By the end of the meeting, however, signs of a compromise had emerged.
    Garrett Shanley, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Red flag.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/red%20flag. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on red flag

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster