false alarm

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This misinterpretation activates the cell's innate immune system, creating a false alarm that can lead to inflammation and disease.

From Science Daily • Feb. 27, 2026

Reul said they saw "no smoke, no smell of fire, or damage", so they "concluded it was a false alarm", which he said was not unusual.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

Others, the sweet relief of a false alarm and disaster narrowly averted.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025

I see some information about cops scrambling, but an editor says it’s a false alarm and not to worry about it.

From Slate • Jun. 17, 2025

Because yeah, it was a false alarm, but I know it felt real to Dylan.

From "What If It's Us" by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera