What does the Phrase ‘Ring a Bell’ Means?

To ring a bell means —

• to seem familiar;
• to remind one of something;
• to spark a previously forgotten memory.

‘Bell’ here is used in the sense of a reminder used for recalling a vague or distant memory.

For example —

“I don’t know you but your face rings a bell. Have we met before?”

Your face seems familiar. I think I have seen you before. Have we met?

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Hi, I am Gauri Shanker, a Vocab teacher and enthusiast. I teach vocabulary in a fun and engaging way. You can check out my courses here.