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.

Doubts about the current bull market have started to creep in following Friday’s tech stock wipeout, but this wouldn’t be the first false alarm.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

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

And though the Aukus review was a scare it was ultimately a false alarm.

From BBC • Oct. 20, 2025

On the bright side, he said, “there’s no problem of having a false alarm or being wrong,” because the predictions won’t affect people on land.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2025

Absurdly, I found myself hoping it was a false alarm.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt