take the red pill
To perceive the world in its previously unknown, usually harsher, reality.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He decided to take the red pill and see the truth.”
“After researching how the industry really works, she felt like she had finally taken the red pill.”
“Once he took the red pill and understood the systemic corruption of his society, he could no longer ignore the uncomfortable reality of his daily life.”
- 01
be taken ill
To become ill.
- 02
bleed red ink
To suffer from severe net losses.
- 03
clap one's hands red
To clap or applaud intensely.
- 04
cross to take up
Alternative form of cross to bear.
- 05
cut red tape
To reduce bureaucracy.
- 06
forget to take one's medication this morning
To be annoyed or irritable, or to behave in an ill-mannered way, particularly in the morning.
- 07
get taken in
To be fooled; to fall for.
- 08
give and take
A process of compromise or accommodation.
Last updated August 10, 2026