RED-FLAG Synonyms: 28 Similar and Opposite Words

red flag

noun

Definition of red flag

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

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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 Despite its many red flags, the new Cambridge Analytica’s content has been cited by news outlets including Esquire and Ars Technica. — Maggie Harrison Dupré, Futurism, 30 July 2026 On June 7, McCaffrey turned 30, which may be a red flag to some but not to the former Stanford star. — Cam Inman, Mercury News, 30 July 2026 This sudden switch following the meeting and its aftermath raised red flags both in The Nation and The Federalist. — Steve H. Hanke, Fortune, 29 July 2026 This will increase wildfire risk across much of the state, and red flag warnings are not out of the question for Northern California where the wind will be a touch stronger. — Sean MacAday 27, Sacbee.com, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for red flag

Recent Examples of Synonyms for red flag

Noun

Colt’s father, Colin Gray, was found guilty of murder and manslaughter charges in March for purchasing his son the firearm and keeping it unsecured despite warnings that Colt was a danger to others.

— Danya Gainor, CNN Money, 28 July 2026
But for most of us, being thrust to the forefront of a TV set with no warning, then ordered to compete with the pros, is a recipe for instant performance anxiety.

— Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 28 July 2026

Definition of warning

Noun

In the absence of the guy who, for better or worse, has been the main character for the last four episodes, the action shows no signs of slowing down.

— Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 28 July 2026
Some associations maintain little more than an entrance sign, while others oversee roads, pools, stormwater systems and other shared infrastructure.

— Nora O'Neill July 28, Charlotte Observer, 28 July 2026

Definition of sign

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red-eyes

red flag

red flags

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“Red flag.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/red%20flag. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of red flag

noun

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