green flag

noun green flags · green-flag · greenflag

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