flashing lights
[FLASH-ing LYTES]
noun phrasepl: flashing lights
luzes piscantes
1. lights that turn on and off repeatedly in quick succession, typically used for warnings, signals, or decorative purposes
The police car's flashing lights alerted drivers to slow down.
As luzes piscantes do carro de polícia alertaram os motoristas a reduzirem a velocidade.
2. bright lights that blink or strobe in a rhythmic pattern, commonly used in clubs, concerts, or emergency vehicles
The disco featured flashing lights that synchronized with the music.
A discoteca apresentava luzes piscantes que se sincronizavam com a música.
3. warning signals produced by emergency vehicles or hazard devices
Flashing lights on the ambulance indicated an emergency.
As luzes piscantes na ambulância indicavam uma emergência.
In Brazil, 'luzes piscantes' are strongly associated with emergency services (police, ambulance, fire trucks). In nightlife contexts, especially in clubs and raves, the term also refers to strobe lighting effects. In the USA, flashing lights carry significant cultural weight related to police authority and emergency response, while in clubs and entertainment venues they represent energy and excitement. The term 'giroflex' (from the brand Gyrophare) is colloquially used in Brazil for emergency vehicle light bars.
NYC Slang
disco lights; emergency lights; strobes
Related Idioms & Phrases
see the flashing lights (to notice or become aware of danger or warnings)
under the flashing lights (in a state of emergency or urgent situation)
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