ring a bell
Meaning(s)
1. sound familiar or remind someone of something
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
the name does/doesn't ring a bell
Analysis
The idiom 'to ring a bell' or 'ring a bell with someone' means to sound familiar or to remind someone of something or to awaken a memory somewhere in someone's mind. This is an informal expression you might use more in conversation.
Social Examples (Basic)
- Sorry, I'm afraid I don't remember you and your name isn't ringing any bells either, where did you say we met before?
- I met a man outside the shop yesterday who says he knows you. Does the name 'Kevin Myers' ring a bell? Apparently you both went to the same school.
- Mary's description of the place really rings a bell. I must have been there before!
Professional Examples (Basic)
- The name of that company rings a bell with me but I couldn't give you any details about them.
- Their account was the one we had a payment issue with back in January, does that ring a bell?