door chime

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "door chime" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a device that makes a sound when a door is opened or closed, often used in homes or businesses. Example: "When the delivery person arrived, the door chime alerted me to their presence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Equally annoying, the door chime rang intermittently during both of my visits, pealing over all conversation in the two-tone traditional electronic style.

The New York Times

Think of the way the same song, by Johnny Mercer and John Williams, turns up repeatedly in "The Long Goodbye," in a door chime, at a Mexican funeral.

The New York Times

(A sound that might be a door chime raises the possibility that he got out of the car during the call).

The New Yorker

It has a door chime.

Forbes

Unlike expensive hi-tech incubators, the NeoNurture was powered by a motorcycle battery, used headlights for heat and had a door chime for an alarm.

BBC

Victory for our side!! Don't forget to check behind wall mounted items like a door chime or Thermostat.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Ring Pro, meanwhile, must be wired into your home's door bell chime circuit for power.

TechCrunch

The door chimed and closed.

Nature

The door chimed as I entered.

The New York Times

Door chimes serve as the device's temperature alarm signals.

MIT Technology Review

But their dance is interrupted by the sudden bonging of the door chimes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific type of "door chime", consider adding details about its sound (e.g., "melodic door chime", "two-tone door chime") to provide a clearer picture to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "door chime" when the sound is clearly a buzzer or a bell. A "chime" typically implies a more melodic or resonant sound, unlike the harsher sound of a buzzer or the single strike of a bell.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "door chime" primarily functions as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of signaling device used at an entrance. As Ludwig AI suggests, this device emits a distinct sound, often melodic, to announce someone's arrival.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "door chime" functions as a noun phrase, identifying a signaling device, typically melodic, used at an entrance. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. While "door chime" is not as common as alternatives like "doorbell", it accurately describes a specific type of entry notification. It appears most frequently in news and media, maintaining a neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the sound the device makes to avoid misidentification with buzzers or bells.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

door bell

A more common and general term for an entry notification device.

front door bell

Focuses specifically on the front door.

entry chime

Focuses on the function of indicating someone's entry.

entrance bell

Similar to "door bell", but emphasizes the entrance.

door buzzer

Implies a buzzing sound rather than a chime.

electronic chime

Specifies the chime is electronic.

door signal

A broader term encompassing various types of alerts.

arrival alert

Highlights the notification aspect of someone arriving.

house bell

A bell used in a house

greeting sound

Refers to the sound made upon entry.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a door chime?

A door chime's primary purpose is to alert occupants of a building when someone has arrived or is entering, often used in homes and businesses as a notification system.

How do I troubleshoot a malfunctioning door chime?

Troubleshooting a door chime typically involves checking the power source, wiring connections, and the chime mechanism itself. Consult a professional if you are not comfortable working with electrical components.

What are some alternatives to "door chime"?

Alternatives to "door chime" include "door bell", "entry chime", or "door buzzer", depending on the specific sound and mechanism used.

Is "door chime" the same as "doorbell"?

"Door chime" and "doorbell" are often used interchangeably, but a "door chime" typically refers to a device that produces a series of musical notes, while a "doorbell" can refer to any signaling device at a door, including buzzers and single-tone bells.