What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alerta
Example
The soldiers were on high alerta during the mission. [alerta: noun]
Example
Be alerta for any suspicious activity in the area. [alerta: adjective]
alarm
Example
The fire alarm went off, and everyone evacuated the building. [alarm: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of alarm when she heard strange noises outside her window. [alarm: noun]
Example
The security system is equipped with motion detectors and alarms. [alarm: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alarm is more commonly used than alerta in everyday language, especially in English-speaking countries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alerta and alarm?
Both alerta and alarm can be used in formal and informal contexts, but alerta may be more appropriate in formal settings where Spanish is spoken.
