sound as a bell
1
6.0
- idiom
:
en perfecto estado
- Her explanation of the project was sound as a bell, making it easy for everyone to understand.
Examples
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He's as sound as a bell, sir.
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She's sound as a bell.
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She said, "It's good of you to be concerned, Lottie, but my son is a very ordinary little boy and sound as a bell."
Fiction book (1990) -
Sound as a bell.
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The car is running sound as a bell after the recent maintenance work.
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Despite the long journey, the old clock is still sound as a bell and keeps perfect time.
Synonyms
58
2.3
In good condition and safe to use
12
2.4
Not harmed or broken and still in its original condition
Antonyms
How Functional
Surface Forms
Morphology
The adjective 'sound' (in good condition) combined with the simile 'as a bell' is compositionally predictable: the comparison to a bell implies a clear, intact quality that strengthens the meaning of 'sound.' This follows standard English comparison patterns, so a B1 learner who knows the constituent words can infer the meaning 'in perfect condition / functioning well.'
Etymology
Sound as a bell paints the picture of a clear bell that rings perfectly and loudly, with no cracks or problems. That's why calling something sound or sound as a bell means it is 'in perfect condition' or 'reliable'.