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It rings a bell

UK //ɪt rɪŋz ə bɛl// US //ɪt rɪŋz ə bɛl// Pronunciation

Definition

To evoke a memory or recognition.

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In simple words: It sounds familiar or reminds you of something.

Examples

• The name John Smith rings a bell, but I can't remember where I heard it.
• When she mentioned the old school, it rings a bell from my childhood.
• That song rings a bell; I think I heard it on the radio recently.
• His story rings a bell; didn't you tell it at last year's meeting?
• The title of the book rings a bell, but I haven't read it yet.

Usage notes

Use this phrase when recalling something you've heard before. It's informal, so it's not suited for formal writing.

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Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine a bell ringing in your mind when you remember something.

Collocations

• ring a bell
• might ring a bell
• it rings a bell

Synonyms

• sounds familiar
• triggers a memory
• seems known

Common mistakes

• Used in formal contexts where a more precise phrase is better.
• Confused with 'it rings true', which means something is believable.