The noun and verb “alarm” refers to a state of fear, anxiety, or concern, often triggered by an unexpected or dangerous event. As a noun, it denotes a sudden feeling of anxiety, panic, or the device used to alert individuals to a potential threat. As a verb, it describes the act of causing someone to feel frightened or concerned, often due to something alarming or unexpected. The word alarm is frequently associated with situations that provoke urgency, danger, or the need for immediate action.
Example Sentences
- The loud siren alarmed everyone in the building, signaling an emergency evacuation.
- His sudden outburst alarmed his colleagues, who were unsure of what had triggered his anger.
- The news of the impending storm alarmed the residents, who quickly began preparing for the worst.
- The suspicious behavior of the man in the parking lot alarmed the security guard, who called for backup.
- The unexpected drop in temperature alarmed the farmers, as they feared it might damage their crops.
- Her pale face and rapid breathing alarmed her parents, prompting them to take her to the hospital.
- The alarm on the clock rang loudly, waking everyone in the house.
- The sight of the large crack in the wall alarmed the homeowners, who immediately called a structural engineer.
- The rapid spread of the virus alarmed health officials, leading to widespread precautions.
- The sudden power outage alarmed the residents, who feared a more serious problem.
Synonyms
- Fear
- Panic
- Concern
- Dismay
- Worry
- Fright
- Anxiety
- Shock
- Apprehension
- Distress
Antonyms
- Calm
- Peace
- Reassurance
- Comfort
- Tranquility
- Security
- Confidence
- Relaxation
- Composure
- Serenity
Related Words
- Alert
- Distress
- Anxiety
- Fright
- Panic
- Concern
- Fear
- Apprehension
- Warning
- Nervousness
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Set off: To trigger an alarm or cause a reaction of fear or concern.
- Sound off: To express concerns or complaints, often in an alarming or alarming manner.
- Freak out: To react with extreme panic or alarm to a situation.
- Cry out: To shout or call out in alarm or distress.
- Blow the whistle: To alert others about a problem or danger, often causing alarm in response.
Idiomatic Expressions
- Cause a stir: To create a lot of alarm, concern, or excitement among people.
- Red flag: A warning sign or signal that causes alarm about potential problems or risks.
- Ring alarm bells: To cause someone to become alarmed or to raise awareness of a potential danger or problem.
- Jump out of one’s skin: To be startled or shocked, often due to alarm or fear.
- On edge: To be anxious or nervous, often due to a sense of alarm or concern about something.
The word “alarm” involves causing a state of fear, concern, or urgency, often in response to a perceived threat or unexpected event. As both a noun and a verb, it highlights the emotional response to danger or risk, as well as the device that signals such threats. Synonyms such as “panic,” “dismay,” and “fear” focus on the emotional and psychological reactions to alarming situations, while antonyms like “calm” and “reassurance” reflect the opposite state of tranquility. The related phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions emphasize how alarm can manifest in different forms, from physical reactions to emotional distress, underscoring the idea of heightened awareness or fear. Whether through a literal alarm or an emotional reaction, alarm signals a need for attention and action in response to a potential threat or danger.
