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alert

Definition

  • noun: something (such as a message or loud sound) that tells people there is some danger or problem
  • noun: a state of careful watching and readiness especially for danger or opportunity
  • verb: to give (someone) important information about a possible problem, danger, etc.
  • verb: to call to a state of readiness
  • adjective: able to think clearly and to notice things
  • adjective: watchful and prompt to meet danger or emergency
  • used with 'on'
  • synonyms: klaxon, mayday, sos

Examples

  • We need to 'alert' the public 'to' the dangers of these chemicals. [=we need to tell the public about the dangers of these chemicals]

  • Several neighbors 'alerted' the authorities/police when they noticed strangers acting suspiciously.

  • The nurse kept/stayed 'alert' for any change [=watched for any change] in the patient's condition.

Movie quotes

  • (..) He's puttin' 'em in backwa... Here, you're puttin' 'em in backwards! Plus is positive, minus is negative! Oh, let me! Let's go to my room, guys! Red alert! Red alert! Andy is coming upstairs! -There! -Juvenile intrusion! Repeat, resume your positions now! (..)
    1995 Toy Story