# false alarm

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/false-alarm
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A thing or occurrence which initially causes fear, distress, etc. but which is subsequently recognized as being no cause for concern.

## Examples

- The smoke detector went off, but it was just a false alarm.
- We rushed to the hospital because of the pain, but the doctor said it was a false alarm.
- Although the sirens initially caused widespread panic throughout the city, authorities soon confirmed that the incident was merely a false alarm.

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