Portuguese Phrase
O alarme está alto.
Meaning
This phrase is used to describe the volume of an alarm, whether it is a wake-up clock, a car alarm, or a security system. In Portuguese, the word 'alto' means both 'tall' and 'loud' depending on the context.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to comment on the noise level of an alarm that is currently ringing. It is helpful in situations where you need someone to turn it down or acknowledge the noise.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Oalarmeestáalto
Estar (está)
The verb 'estar' is used here because the loudness is a temporary state of the alarm while it is ringing.
Alto
In this context, 'alto' functions as an adjective describing the volume level.
🗨In Conversation
O alarme está alto.
The alarm is loud.
Sim, vou abaixar o volume.
Yes, I will lower the volume.
✕Common Mistakes
O alarme é alto.
Use 'estar' for the current state of the volume rather than 'ser' which implies a permanent characteristic.
O alarme está forte.
While 'forte' means strong, 'alto' is the standard adjective for high volume in Portuguese.
↔Alternatives
O som do alarme está muito alto.
The sound of the alarm is very loud.
O alarme está fazendo muito barulho.
The alarm is making a lot of noise.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese-speaking cultures, 'alto' is the go-to word for volume. If you are at a party and the music is too loud, you would also say 'A música está alta.' It is a versatile word that covers height and sound intensity.