in the black

English

Etymology

From the standard accounting practice of using black ink, as opposed to red ink, to denote positive values, especially a net income.

Adjective

in the black (comparative more in the black, superlative most in the black)

1. (accounting, idiomatic) Having positive net income; having greater income than expenses; making a profit.
2. (accounting, idiomatic) Having positive net worth.

Usage notes

• Also may function adverbially.

Antonyms

• in the red

Translations

having positive net income

French: dans le noir (fr) Japanese: 黒字 (ja) (kuroji)

Korean: 흑자 (ko) (heukja)