state of alert
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state of alert
The state in which people or organizations (e.g. fire department, military, hospital staff) are ready to act immediately in the event of an alarm or emergency.
Die gesamte Feuerwache wurde wegen des Sturms in Alarmbereitschaft versetzt.
The entire fire station was put on alert because of the storm.
The word consists of 'Alarm' (alarm) and 'Bereitschaft' (readiness). 'Bereitschaft' comes from the adjective 'bereit' (ready) and describes the state of being ready for something. So 'Alarmbereitschaft' (state of alert) is literally the state of being ready for an alarm.
Die Bereitschaft der Helfer, auch nachts zu arbeiten, war beeindruckend.
The helpers' willingness to work even at night was impressive.
This noun is very often used with the verb 'versetzen' (to put/place): 'jemanden/etwas in Alarmbereitschaft versetzen' (to put someone/something on alert). Another common combination is 'in Alarmbereitschaft sein' (to be on alert).
Die Nachricht hat die Polizei in höchste Alarmbereitschaft versetzt.
The news put the police on highest alert.
The first meaning usually refers to official institutions such as the fire department, police, or military in a real emergency. The second meaning is often metaphorical and describes personal or private tension in expectation of a problem.
Die Klinik wurde wegen des erwarteten Unwetters in Alarmbereitschaft versetzt.
The clinic was put on alert because of the expected severe weather.
attention
'Aufmerksamkeit' and 'Alarmbereitschaft' both describe that someone is alert and attentive. 'Aufmerksamkeit' is neutral and can be directed at almost anything, for example a conversation, a task, or traffic. 'Alarmbereitschaft' is stronger: you expect a possible problem and are inwardly tense or immediately ready to react. The words can be confused because in both states you are watching closely. However, 'Alarmbereitschaft' only fits when danger, pressure, or a possible emergency plays a role. Without that kind of tension, 'Aufmerksamkeit' is more natural.
Nach der Warnung vor starkem Sturm ist das Team in Alarmbereitschaft.
After the warning about a strong storm, the team is on alert.
Sie hört dem Handwerker mit großer Aufmerksamkeit zu, weil sie den Fehler verstehen will.
She listens to the repairman with great attention because she wants to understand the fault.