bandiera rossa
The English phrase 'red flag' is translated into Italian as bandiera rossa.
bandiera rossa is used as a noun to denote a cue, warning, alert or a sign and signal that something is wrong.
Meaning: a cue, warning, or alert, a sign or signal that something is wrong (noun)
Did you know?
- In Italian sports, specifically in football, a bandiera is a slang term for a legendary player who is intensely loyal to their club and embodies its values.
- While bandiera rossa means a warning in a metaphorical sense, it is also the historical symbol of the Italian socialist movement and the official flag of the Italian Socialist Party.
- In many Italian contexts, a warning sign is not always a 'red flag' but can be described as a campanello d'allarme, which literally translates to a 'bell of alarm'.
Examples in context
- Ho notato un segnale di pericolo durante la riunione di oggi.I noticed a red flag during today's meeting.
Example conversation
Chiara and Alessandro are discussing a new job offer.
- ChiaraCosa ne pensi di questa offerta, Alessandro?What do you think of this offer, Alessandro?
- AlessandroLo stipendio è basso, è una bandiera rossa.The salary is low, it's a red flag.
- ChiaraHai ragione, è un segnale preoccupante.You are right, it's a worrying signal.
- AlessandroSì, meglio cercare un'altra azienda.Yes, it's better to look for another company.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry bandiera rossa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
