alarm (redirected from alarms)

I don't want to alarm you, but and I don't want to upset you, but

an expression used to introduce bad or shocking news or gossip. Bill: I don't want to alarm you, but I see someone prowling around your car. Mary: Oh, goodness! I'll call the police! Bob: I don't want to upset you, but I have some bad news. Tom: Let me have it.

See also: but, want

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a false alarm

a situation when you think that something bad or dangerous is going to happen but you discover you were wrong Someone called to say there was a bomb inside the building, but it turned out to be a false alarm.

See also: false

set (the) alarm bells ringing

if something sets alarm bells ringing, it makes you feel worried because it is a sign that there may be a problem Symptoms which should set alarm bells ringing are often ignored by doctors.

See also: bell, ring, set

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set off alarm bells also ring alarm bells

to warn of trouble and the need for action The report about worldwide climate change should sound alarm bells in every community.

See also: bell, set