warning signals
Signs of trouble
Warning signals are signs indicating danger, a need for caution, or an impending problem.
They can be physical—flashing lights, sirens, the rattle of a snake—or behavioral: Her evasiveness was a warning signal.
In relationships and business, warning signals suggest trouble ahead if ignored: The company's cash flow problems were warning signals of bankruptcy.
- error messageSoftware's complaint about problems
- check engine lightDashboard diagnostic warning lamp
- flashing lightIllumination that pulses
- whistleShrill air-blown sounder
- shoutingVocally projecting loudly
hissing · distress calls · alarm · smoke · hand gestures · chemical defense · goosebumps · gut feeling · hazard lights · flashing red · red flag · klaxon · pupil dilation · beacon · yellow flag · safety drills · growling · raised hackles
- animal signalsbody language, bird songs, tail wagging, mating calls, whale song
- protectivenessguarding, shielding, sheltering, defender, protector
- signalssignaling, sign, waved, nodded, gestured
- dominance displaysdisplay, alpha behavior, power stance, chest puffing, baring teeth
- insect behaviorsforaging, mating, flight, flying, crawling
- train accidentstrain accidents, train wrecks, derailments, collisions, crashes
warning signalsreassurances
Statements restoring confidence
green lights · welcome signs · thumbs up · seals of approval · clean bill of health
warning signalsgo-ahead
Permission to begin
green light · invitation · beckoning · welcome · encouragement