in the red

Definition

Having net losses; in debt.

Etymology

From the standard accounting practice of using red ink to denote negative values, especially a net loss. The first known written use of the phrase is from the "Wise-crack dictionary" (1926) by George H. Maines and Bruce Grant.http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/202000.html

Example Sentences

• "The figures are going to be in the red this year."