in the black

USAGE SUMMARY

'in the black' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used as a metaphor to mean financially successful or profitable. For example: "The new product launch has put the company in the black for the first time in years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Finally in the black!

The New York Times

"Now, I'm in the black hole".

The New York Times

And BP is in the black.

The New Yorker

"And in the black hole statehood disappears.

The New Yorker

Moreover, it is in the black.

The New York Times

THE CHALLENGE Get back in the black.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

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This is noted in the black-box label of bevacizumab.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a company's financial status, use "in the black" to indicate profitability succinctly.

Common error

Avoid using "in the black" when literally referring to the color black. The phrase is primarily understood as a financial term, so use more descriptive language if you are discussing color.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the black" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun (company, business, account, etc.) to indicate a state of profitability or financial solvency. Ludwig examples showcase its use in describing a positive financial state.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the black" is an adjective phrase that denotes financial profitability or solvency. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used. It's commonly found in contexts such as news reports and business discussions to describe companies or individuals that are making a profit. While the opposite of this phrase is "in the red", which signifies a loss, alternative phrases like "profitable" or "solvent" can be used to express similar meanings. Remember to use the phrase correctly in the financial context and not literally in reference to the color black.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Profitable

Single-word adjective replacing the entire phrase; direct and concise.

Financially sound

Replaces "in the black" with a more descriptive adjective phrase.

Making a profit

Expresses the same idea using a verb phrase instead of an adjective phrase.

Solvent

A formal, single-word adjective signifying financial stability.

With a positive balance

A more literal and less idiomatic way to describe being "in the black".

Out of debt

Focuses on the absence of debt as a key indicator of financial health.

Clear of liabilities

Emphasizes the lack of financial obligations.

Earning more than spending

Describes the state of being "in the black" in terms of income versus expenses.

Flourishing financially

Adds a sense of growth and prosperity.

Experiencing financial gain

Highlights the act of gaining money and improving financial status.

FAQs

How can I use "in the black" in a sentence?

You can use "in the black" to describe a company or individual that is making a profit. For example, "After a successful quarter, the company is finally "in the black"".

What is the opposite of "in the black"?

The opposite of "in the black" is often "in the red", which signifies that a company or individual is losing money or operating at a loss.

What are some synonyms for "in the black"?

Synonyms for "in the black" include "profitable", "solvent", or "making a profit". These phrases all indicate financial success.

Is it appropriate to use "in the black" in formal writing?

Yes, "in the black" is widely understood and acceptable in both formal and informal contexts to describe financial profitability. However, ensure your audience will understand this idiomatic expression.