'False Alarm' Meaning and Example Sentences

The idiom "false alarm" is a phrase used to describe a situation where an alarm or warning is sounded, but there is no actual danger or emergency present. It is usually used as a noun phrase, but can also be used as an adjective phrase (e.g. "false alarm signal").

The origin of the phrase is believed to come from the use of alarm systems in buildings or homes, where a false alarm would occur when the alarm was triggered by something other than a real emergency or danger. This phrase has been used since the early 20th century.

"false alarm" meaning and sample sentences

The phrase can be used in a variety of contexts, but is commonly used to describe a situation where someone mistakenly believes there is danger or emergency present, when in fact there is not. It can also be used in a more general sense to describe any situation where something is thought to be true or happening, but turns out to be false.

It's important to note that the idiom false alarm has a negative connotation. It implies a sense of disappointment, wasted energy, and possibly even frustration. As such, it's mostly used in situations where it's clear that no real danger was present, or it was clear that the alarm was not real.

Here are ten examples of sentences using the idiom "false alarm":

I thought I heard someone break in, but it was just a false alarm.
The tornado warning turned out to be a false alarm, thankfully.
The stock market crash prediction was a false alarm, and the market is still going strong.
I was so scared when the fire alarm went off, but it was just a false alarm.
The earthquake warning was a false alarm, it was just a small tremor.
I thought I was going to lose my job, but it was just a false alarm.
The burglar alarm went off, but it was just a false alarm caused by a cat.
I was relieved when the doctor told me the test results were a false alarm.
The bomb threat was a false alarm, and the school was able to resume normal activities.
I got really worried when I saw the storm clouds, but it was just a false alarm and the sun came out.

Comments

What Does “Eat Crow” Mean? Origin, Usage & Examples

The idiom “eat crow” means to admit you were wrong after insisting you were right. Figuratively, it refers to swallowing one’s pride, facing embarrassment, or conceding a mistake. Literally, it suggests the unpleasant act of eating a crow—a bird associated with being tough, gamey, and unappetizing. This contrast makes it a memorable piece of figurative language in English. Origin or Background The phrase “eat crow” first appeared in 19th-century America. One widely shared story comes from an 1850 newspaper article describing a farmer who lost a bet and was forced to eat a crow he had shot. Because crows were considered undesirable and even revolting to eat, the tale quickly gained symbolic meaning. Interestingly, similar expressions exist in other cultures, such as “eating humble pie” in British English, both carrying the idea of reluctantly accepting humiliation. Common Usage in Everyday English People use “eat crow” in situations where: Someone is proven wrong after c...

🌟 Unpacking the Phrase: What Does “Wrapped Up In” Really Mean? 🎁

In everyday language, we often use idioms to express emotions, involvement, or priorities. One such expression is “wrapped up in” , which might sound simple at first but actually carries layers of meaning. From being emotionally invested to physically covered or fully occupied, the phrase serves as a vivid linguistic tool. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the meaning of “wrapped up in” from different angles, providing context, examples, and insight into its versatile use across scenarios. 🎭 Emotional Angle: When You’re Wrapped Up in Feelings ❤️ The phrase is most commonly used to convey deep emotional involvement. When someone says they are wrapped up in a relationship, a problem, or a past experience, it means their mind and heart are entirely preoccupied by it. This usage reflects how emotional experiences can consume our thoughts and influence our actions. For example: “She was so wrapped up in her grief that she barely noticed the days passing by.” This emotiona...

💌 The Meaning of the Idiom "You and Yours" 🫶 — Explained with Examples

When someone says "you and yours," it may sound poetic or old-fashioned, but it's still warm , meaningful , and used in modern conversations. This phrase is an elegant and affectionate way to include you and your loved ones , and it often appears in greetings, well wishes, and heartfelt messages. In this article, we will unpack the true meaning of the idiom "you and yours," explore how it's used in different contexts, and provide original sample sentences. Whether you're crafting a message, a speech, or just looking to understand everyday expressions more deeply, this guide is for you and yours . 💡 What Does "You and Yours" Really Mean? The idiom "you and yours" refers to you and the people closely connected to you — typically your family, partner, or loved ones . It's a collective expression that conveys inclusion, care, and community . ✅ “You” refers to the person being addressed. ✅ “Yours” extends to those who b...

On All Fours: Meaning, Context, and Etymology

The phrase "on all fours" is an idiom that has been in use since the 16th century. It is a noun phrase that describes a position where all four limbs are touching the ground. This phrase is often used to describe animals, such as cats and dogs, that are in a crawling position. It can also be used to describe humans in a submissive or humble position. The origin of this phrase dates back to the Latin phrase " quadrupedare ," which means "to go on all fours." This phrase is used to describe a person or animal that is in a position of complete submission or humility. It can also be used to describe someone who is in a low-power situation or who is being taken advantage of. In modern usage, this phrase can be used to describe any situation where someone is in a vulnerable position or at a disadvantage. It can also be used to describe someone who is trying to get ahead but is struggling due to external factors. Additionally, it can be used to ...

Hit the Sack — Meaning, Origin, and How to Use It in Everyday English

Have you ever felt so tired after a long day that you just wanted to collapse into bed? That’s exactly when you might say, “I’m going to hit the sack.” This fun little idiom is one of the most common ways English speakers announce they’re ready to sleep. In this post, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, and examples of hit the sack , plus some similar phrases you can use. Meaning of “Hit the Sack” The idiom hit the sack simply means to go to bed or to go to sleep . It’s an informal expression, often used casually among friends or family. Sometimes it can also mean going to bed early because you’re very tired. 👉 Short definition: Hit the sack = go to bed, go to sleep. Origin of “Hit the Sack” This idiom goes back to the early 1900s in America. At that time, mattresses weren’t always the soft, springy beds we know today. Instead, people often stuffed large cloth sacks with straw, hay, or similar materials to create something to sleep on. So when someone said, “I’m goin...

Your Daily Idioms

Search This Blog