Alarm bells ring/start ringing
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Figurative Use
The phrase is used metaphorically to represent a feeling of concern, not actual ringing bells.
When he missed another deadline, alarm bells started ringing for his supervisor.
Pro Tip 2/3Empathy Signal
Use this phrase to express empathy when someone shares a worrying situation.
She said the company hadn't paid her in months, and that really made alarm bells ring for me.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Intensity
The phrase indicates a strong emotional response to potential danger or problem.
The sight of my stolen documents made alarm bells ring in my head.
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