Ring a bell

Meaning

The idiom "ring a bell" means to remind someone of something or to call attention to an event, typically by making a sound like a bell ringing. It can also mean to be impressed or affected by something, or to signal the end of something.

Usage

• She rings a bell every hour to remind herself to take a break from work.
• The sound of a church bell ringing signaled the start of the market day in the old town square.
• He rang the bell at the end of his speech to signal applause.
• When she heard the first notes of the piano, it was like a bell had rung and she was transported back to her childhood.
• The announcement that they would be boarding the plane soon was like a ringing bell, signaling the beginning of their adventure.

Roots and History

The idiom "ring a bell" has been in use since at least the 15th century. It is thought to have originated from the practice of bells being rung to announce important events or to summon people for prayer or worship. Over time, the meaning of the idiom expanded to include other types of reminders and notifications.

Synonyms in English

• Alert me
• Remind me
• Notify me
• Signal the end
• Announce

Synonyms in other languages

• French: Sonner la cloche (ring the bell)
• Spanish: Sonar la campana (sound the bell)
• Italian: Suonare la campanella (ring the little bell)
• German: Glocke läuten (bell ringing)
• Japanese: 鐘が目をつける (the sound of a bell makes you wake up)

Similar Idioms

• roaring trade

• recharge one’s batteries

• red book