[set|sound|ring] (the|) alarm bells
1
to cause fear or concern by showing a warning sign
The exact origin of the idiom "set alarm bells" is not well-documented, but it likely stems from the association of alarm bells with alerting or warning people to potential danger. Bells have been used throughout history as signals to indicate emergencies or threats, and the phrase "set alarm bells" figuratively extends this concept to situations that warrant attention or caution. It is used to describe a situation or action that triggers a sense of warning, concern, or suspicion. It often signifies that a potential problem, danger, or issue has been identified, prompting people to take notice and investigate further.
- And the way he was looking at me—it made the alarm bells ring even louder.
- Her statement should have rung alarm bells but nobody took the precaution of checking the facts.
- I would like to raise an alarm bell today because of the fight against climate change.
- Regardless of where the bacteria came from, the test results should sound an alarm bell.
- The assassination set alarm bells ringing in Washington and European capitals.