English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Red book
Meaning
The idiom "red book" refers to a collection of information or data that is considered important or valuable. It can also refer to a list of rules, regulations, or guidelines that must be followed. Figuratively, the idiom can be used to describe a situation or person that is dangerous or risky. For example, "He's always in trouble with the red book" could mean that he often breaks rules or regulations.
Usage
- The company has a strict policy on sexual harassment, which is outlined in the red book.
- The scientist kept careful notes of her experiments, which she recorded in a red book.
- The politician was known for breaking campaign finance laws, and he always had to be careful not to violate the red book.
- The teacher gave out copies of the red book at the beginning of the semester, so students would know what was expected of them.
- The hiker carried a map and compass in his red book, which helped him navigate through the wilderness. The usage of the idiom "red book" can vary depending on the context. For example, it can refer to a strict set of rules or regulations in one context, while in another context it could refer to a list of important information or data.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom is unclear, but it may have derived from the idea of a book that is marked with red ink to indicate important or valuable information. Over time, the phrase came to be used more broadly to describe any collection of data or information that was considered important or valuable.
Synonyms in English
- blueprint
- manual
- guidebook
- reference book
- handbook
Synonyms in other languages
- French: manuel (manual)
- Spanish: guía (guidebook)
- German: Handbuch (handbook)
- Italian: manuale (manual)
- Dutch: handboek (reference book)