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to set (the) alarm bells
01
gevaarlijk of zorgwekkend zijn
to cause fear or concern by showing a warning sign
What is the origin of the idiom "set alarm bells" and when to use it?
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.
Voorbeeld
The assassination set alarm bells ringing in Washington and European capitals.
Her statement should have rung alarm bells but nobody took the precaution of checking the facts.
This takeover bid is bound to sound alarm bells at other tech companies.
The claim that soldiers killed an outspoken young ethnic activist in self-defense sets the alarm bells ringing,
This should ring alarm bells in all European countries and the United States.
