Nota: La traducción de esta entrada está actualmente en revisión de calidad, por lo que parte del contenido se muestra temporalmente solo en inglés.
Esta entrada aún no se ha traducido a tu idioma, así que se muestra el original a continuación.
red flag
This term operates on two distinct levels: the literal and the figurative. In a literal sense, it refers to a physical object used in maritime, racing, or beach safety contexts to signal immediate danger or a mandatory stop. In these settings, the red flag is an authoritative command rather than a suggestion.
Figuratively, it describes a behavioral or situational warning sign. While a "warning sign" is neutral, a "red flag" often carries a stronger negative connotation, suggesting that a specific trait or event is a deal-breaker or a symptom of a deeper, systemic problem. It is frequently used in the context of interpersonal relationships, job interviews, and financial auditing to describe intuitive or evidence-based alarms.
Meanings
Examples
His constant need to control everything was a huge red flag.
The lifeguard raised the red flag because the current was too strong.
Wait, he just lied about his previous job. That is a red flag.
The sudden drop in blood pressure is a red flag for the medical team.
I should have noticed the red flags earlier in our relationship.
The race was stopped immediately when the red flag was waved.
Something about this contract feels off. This clause is a major red flag.
The detective noted the suspect's nervousness as a red flag during the interrogation.