Alert: meaning, definitions and examples

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alert

[əˈlərt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

notification

A message or signal that warns of a dangerous or unexpected situation.

Synonyms

alarm, notification, signal, warning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
alert	Used to make someone aware of a potential danger or problem, requiring immediate attention or action. The lifeguard alerted the swimmers about the strong currents. She received an alert on her phone about a severe weather warning.
warning	A message that informs of potential danger or problems, typically giving enough time to avoid or prepare for it. It can have a cautionary tone. The sign provided a warning about the slippery floor. He gave her a warning about the difficult hiking trail ahead.
notification	A digital or automated message that informs someone about a recent or upcoming event. Generally, it does not imply immediate danger. She got a notification about a new email in her inbox. The app sent a notification about the latest updates.
signal	A sign or indication that conveys information, often used in the context of communication or transportation. The traffic light turned green, giving the signal to go. She waved her hand to signal the waiter for the check.
alarm	Typically associated with a device or sound that signals danger or requires immediate action. Often has a more intense and urgent connotation. The fire alarm went off, and everyone evacuated the building. He set his alarm for 6 AM to wake up early.

Examples of usage

An alert was issued for the incoming storm.
She received an alert on her phone about the traffic jam.
The security system triggered an alert when someone tried to break in.
I always keep my phone on silent, so I often miss important alerts.
Make sure to pay attention to weather alerts during hurricane season.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

awareness

The state of being watchful and ready to act or inform others.

Synonyms

attentive, prepared, vigilant, watchful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
alert	Use when describing someone who is quick to notice and respond to potential danger or change. The security guard was alert to any suspicious behavior Stay alert while driving in the rain
vigilant	Use when describing someone who is watchful and alert, especially to avoid danger or trouble. Often used in contexts requiring ongoing attention. The police remained vigilant during the demonstration Parents should be vigilant about their children's online activities
attentive	Use when discussing someone who is paying close attention to something or someone, often in a caring or considerate manner. The teacher was very attentive to her students' needs He was an attentive listener during the meeting
watchful	Use when talking about someone who continuously observes something carefully to protect against potential problems or dangers. The mother kept a watchful eye on her playing children The organization was watchful of any signs of fraud
prepared	Use when talking about someone who is ready and well-equipped for a situation or task. She was well prepared for the exam The team was prepared for any emergencies that might arise

Examples of usage

He maintained a high level of alert even during the night.
The soldiers were on high alert after hearing enemy movements.
Being on alert helped her avoid potential dangers.
The team remained on alert for any sudden changes in the situation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Italian 'all'erta,' which means 'on the lookout' or 'watchful.'
It first appeared in English in the early 1600s, reflecting the idea of being vigilant and attentive.
Related words include 'alertness' and 'alerting,' demonstrating how this concept is intertwined with awareness.

Psychology

In psychology, being alert indicates a heightened state of awareness which is crucial for processing information quickly.
Alertness is linked to better concentration and memory, making it important for learning and performing tasks efficiently.
Studies show that factors like sleep quality and stress levels significantly influence a person's alertness.

Technology

In technology, alerts are used in notifications to grab users' attention, highlighting important updates or messages.
Many apps utilize alert systems to improve user engagement, signaling when something changes or needs action.
Security systems employ alerts to notify homeowners instantly of any unusual activity, enhancing safety.

Pop Culture

Alertness is a frequent theme in action and thriller movies where characters must stay vigilant to survive tense situations.
In video games, players often receive alerts about incoming dangers or important objectives, emphasizing the need for quick reaction.
Catchphrases like 'Stay alert!' appear in various media, underscoring the cultural significance of being attentive.

Health

Maintaining alertness is essential for physical health, as prolonged tiredness can lead to accidents and decreased efficiency.
Eating healthy foods can help boost your alertness, showing the link between nutrition and being attentive.
Mindfulness and meditation practices are used to enhance alertness, proving that mental exercises can sharpen focus.

Translations

Translations of the word "alert" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alerta

🇮🇳 चेतावनी

🇩🇪 Warnung

🇮🇩 peringatan

🇺🇦 сповіщення

🇵🇱 alert

🇯🇵 警報

🇫🇷 alerte

🇪🇸 alerta

🇹🇷 uyarı

🇰🇷 경고

🇸🇦 تنبيه

🇨🇿 upozornění

🇸🇰 upozornenie

🇨🇳 警报

🇸🇮 opozorilo

🇮🇸 viðvörun

🇰🇿 ескерту

🇬🇪 გაფრთხილება

🇦🇿 xəbərdarlıq

🇲🇽 alerta

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,102 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6099 derivative
6100 corpus
6101 basement
6102 alert
6103 cylindrical
6104 descended
6105 marched
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