20 red idioms
In English, there are many idioms involving the color red. These phrases use “red” to describe different emotions, situations, and ideas. For example, we say someone has “seen red” if they are very angry. This article will explore 20 common “red” idioms, explaining what they mean and how they can be used in everyday conversation. By learning these idioms, you can better understand and communicate in English, making conversations more colorful and expressive.
Red flag
A warning sign that there’s danger or something is not quite right.
Red tape
Complicated bureaucratic rules that are just too much.
See red
To become very angry or enraged.
In the red
To be in debt or losing money.
Caught red-handed
Caught in the act of doing something wrong.
Paint the town red
To go out and enjoy oneself, often in a lively way.
A red herring
Something that distracts or misleads someone from what really matters.
Catch someone red-handed
To catch someone in the act of doing something wrong.
Roll out the red carpet
To give someone special treatment.
Red-hot
Extremely popular or in demand.
A red-letter day
A special or memorable day.
See red mist
To become very angry.
In the red zone
In a risky or dangerous situation.
Red alert
A state of heightened warning or emergency.
Red ink
Financial losses or debts.
Like a red rag to a bull
Something that provokes or annoys someone.
Go red in the face
To become embarrassed or angry.
A red-eye
An overnight or late-night flight or train ride.
A red-blooded person
A passionate or energetic individual.
Like a red tomato
Extremely embarrassed or shy.
If you enjoyed reading about red idioms, you might also like our collection of blue idioms!
