definite red

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definite red" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific shade or tone of red that is clear and unmistakable. Example: "The artist chose a definite red for the background to make the other colors pop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Buildings that cannot afford to make mortgage payments or meet expenses are definite red flags.

Forbes

"My first impressions were that it was a definite red card and a penalty and the referee thought the same".

BBC

Of course you might learn only good things and still end up getting laid off, but there are definite red flags to look out for.

Forbes

"I think it was a definite red card and we are very fortunate he's [Di Santo] only got a minor injury.

BBC

"This is a definite red flag indicating a strong degree of selfishness.

Huffington Post

"We want to make sure all dangerous people are prohibited from purchasing guns, and all prohibited people have been researched and put into the FBI's NICS index so there is a definite red light when those people attempt to buy a gun".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But a few days ago we finally discovered the sex of the twins, a definite red-letter day.

Huffington Post

"One of the worst parts of a breakup is you'll never see their dog again, and the dog has no idea why". For many, it's a definite a red flag.

HuffPost

It is not a mere absence of colour; it is a shining and affirmative thing, as fierce as red, as definite as black. . . .

The New Yorker

"But the two showings he's had I think he's held his own very well and he's got a definite future in the red jersey.

BBC

The star of the show is "Untitled (Ocher and Red)," in which a more definite form, that of a red partial cross, occupies the top half of a glowing field brushed thinly enough to show glints of red beneath it.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definite red" when you want to emphasize a clear and unmistakable shade of red. For example, when describing a political situation or a financial risk as a "definite red flag".

Common error

While "definite red" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid it in highly formal writing where a more precise or technical term for the specific shade of red may be more appropriate. Consider using more descriptive alternatives like "crimson", "scarlet", or "vermilion" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definite red" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective modifying a noun, indicating a clear and unmistakable shade of the color red. As Ludwig AI shows, it can also function figuratively, like in "definite red flag", to describe warning signs.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "definite red" is grammatically sound and generally used to describe a clear and unmistakable shade of red, but can also function as a warning. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is correct to use. While less common in formal writing, it is perfectly acceptable in news articles, general discussions, and even figurative contexts such as "definite red flag". When choosing to employ this expression, consider whether a more nuanced or precise term might be more appropriate, particularly in specialized fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct red

Focuses on the clarity and recognizability of the red color.

clear red

Emphasizes the purity and lack of ambiguity in the red color.

unmistakable red

Highlights the impossibility of mistaking the color for something else.

obvious red

Stresses that the redness is easily noticeable and apparent.

pronounced red

Indicates that the red color is particularly strong or noticeable.

vivid red

Suggests a bright and intense shade of red.

certain red

Implies confidence and assurance about the identification of the red color.

undeniable red

Reinforces that the red color is impossible to dispute or deny.

patent red

Highlights the readily visible and apparent nature of the red color.

explicit red

Emphasizes the clear and unambiguous nature of the red color.

FAQs

How can I use "definite red" in a sentence?

You can use "definite red" to describe something that is clearly and unmistakably red, or figuratively to indicate a clear warning or danger. For example, "The cardinal's feathers were a definite red", or "The company's declining profits were a definite red flag".

What are some alternatives to "definite red"?

Some alternatives include "distinct red", "clear red", or "unmistakable red", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a definite red" or "definite red"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "definite red" is more common when used as a descriptor. "A definite red" is more appropriate when you're referring to a specific instance or example of something that is a "definite red".

What does "definite red flag" mean?

A "definite red flag" signifies a clear and obvious warning sign or indication of a problem. It suggests that something requires immediate attention or caution. For example, "Several missed deadlines were a definite red flag about the project's progress".