Meaning of green flag | Babel Free

Definitions

1. A flag that is green, used in motor racing to indicate the beginning or resumption of a race.
   literally
2. A sign or cue that signals a positive trait about someone or something.
   figuratively, informal

Examples

“As we stood waiting for the departure time with the setting sun twinkling on the great brass dome of our 2-4-0, the sound of church bells was the only one apart from the measured tread of the guard slowly pacing towards his van, and, standing at an open window, I more than once heard the fireman's "Right away!" to his mate in acknowledgement of a desultory wave of the unfurled green flag.”

“The Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul is a homely looking place, much smaller than it seems, nestled into a quiet suburban street, and painted pastel yellow. Were it not for a giant steel door and a green flag flying on the roof – both sporting two large swords – it could easily be an Ottoman-era cottage like many nearby.”

“When your partner is going through a tough time — whether on their own or with you involved — how do they manage those emotions? Do they bottle them up and repress their feelings, do they express them, or do they take them out on others? As [Dr. Marissa] Tunis explains, it's a major green flag if your partner "has done work on themselves" to be able to handle their emotions.”

CEFR level