ALARM BELLS Meaning and
Definition
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Alarm bells are a metaphorical expression that refers to a level of concern, caution, or warning sign about a potential danger, problem, or risky situation. It is derived from the idea of a literal alarm bell, a loud resonating percussion instrument that is rung or sounded during emergencies or to alert people of imminent threats.
The term "alarm bells" typically conveys a sense of urgency and the need for immediate attention or action. It signifies the presence of an alarming or distressing factor that demands the recipient's attention and response. It is often used in contexts where there is a growing or imminent crisis, a red flag, or a critical situation that requires swift action to prevent negative consequences.
When alarm bells are metaphorically ringing, it implies that one should be attentive and aware of any possible adverse circumstances or risks. It serves as a warning mechanism to encourage vigilance and prompt action to mitigate or address the identified issue.
The sound of alarm bells serves as a symbolic representation of an impending crisis and prepares individuals to take appropriate measures to avoid or minimize potential harm. It is a figurative device that alerts individuals to pay attention, signaling that immediate steps or precautions are necessary to prevent or handle a threatening situation effectively.
Common Misspellings for ALARM BELLS
- alarm bel
- alarm bell
- allarm bell
- zlarm bells
- slarm bells
- wlarm bells
- qlarm bells
- akarm bells
- aparm bells
- aoarm bells
- alzrm bells
- alsrm bells
- alwrm bells
- alqrm bells
- alaem bells
- aladm bells
- alafm bells
- alatm bells
- ala5m bells
- ala4m bells
Etymology of ALARM BELLS
The etymology of the phrase "alarm bells" originates from the merging of two distinct words.
1. Alarm: The word "alarm" comes from the Old French "alarme" meaning "to arms" or "to call to arms". It entered the English language around the late 14th century, referring to an early warning or signal of danger or disturbance.
2. Bells: The term "bells" derives from the Old English word "belle", which initially referred to a sound-making device similar to a bell. It has been associated with the ringing sound produced by metal bells.
Together, the phrase "alarm bells" combines the idea of an early warning or call to arms with the sound of ringing bells, signifying an urgent and alarming situation. Nowadays, it is often used metaphorically to depict a sense of impending danger or concern.
Idioms with the word ALARM BELLS
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set (the) alarm bells ringing
The idiom "set (the) alarm bells ringing" means to cause an immediate sense of concern, warning, or fear about a particular situation or event. It implies that a serious problem or danger is approaching, and signals the need for immediate attention or action.
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set off alarm bells
The idiom "set off alarm bells" refers to a situation or event that triggers a sense of concern, warning, or suspicion. It is often used to describe when someone becomes aware of a potential or imminent problem or danger.
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ring/sound alarm bells
The idiom "ring/sound alarm bells" is used to indicate a strong feeling of concern, caution, or unease about a particular situation or event. It implies that something is prompting a warning or raising serious doubts or suspicion. It often implies the need for immediate attention or action to prevent a potential problem or danger.
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alarm bells start to ring
The idiom "alarm bells start to ring" typically means to become alert or concerned about a situation. It refers to a feeling or reaction when someone becomes aware of a potential danger, problem, or suspicious activity.
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set alarm bells ringing
The idiom "set alarm bells ringing" means to cause a sense of warning or concern, typically about a particular situation or event. It implies that something alarming or potentially dangerous is happening or about to happen, prompting people to be cautious and pay attention to the issue at hand.
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alarm bells ring/start ringing
The idiom "alarm bells ring/start ringing" refers to a situation or event that causes concern or suggests a potential problem. It implies that a warning sign or alarm has gone off, signaling the need for caution or attention to a particular matter.
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warning/alarm bells start to ring/sound
This idiom refers to a situation or set of circumstances that begin to trigger an alert or cause concern, typically indicating that something may be wrong or dangerous. It can also suggest a growing awareness of a potential problem or issue that needs to be addressed.
Similar spelling words for ALARM BELLS
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