What is what does it mean to be in the red?

Being "in the red" is a common idiom, primarily used in business and finance, meaning to be operating at a loss or incurring a deficit. It indicates that expenses exceed revenue or income. When a company or individual is "in the red," they are essentially losing money. This contrasts with being "in the black," which signifies profitability or a surplus. Being in the red can lead to serious financial trouble if not addressed, potentially leading to debt, bankruptcy, or other negative financial outcomes. It highlights a need for corrective action to improve financial performance, such as cutting costs or increasing revenue.