false sense of reliability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "false sense of reliability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone believes something is reliable when it actually is not. Example: "The outdated data provided a false sense of reliability, leading the team to make poor decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

However the results often give a false sense of reliability due to neglecting uncertainties related to the input variables of the analysis (data uncertainty), unpredictable fluctuations of loads and natural variability of material properties, and/or the uncertainty in the analytical model itself (model uncertainty).

Composites Part B: Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Screening cultures are not wholly reliable and may give a false sense of security.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

False sense of security.

The New York Times

"It's a false sense of reality".

The New York Times

They create a false sense of certainty.

The New York Times

"Why create a false sense of legality?

The New York Times

"It may have given us a false sense of hope".

The New Yorker

Was I getting a false sense of security?

The New York Times

What is destroyed is egoism, the false sense of independence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mass surveillance, he continued, "gives a false sense of security.

The New Yorker

He's the one with the false sense of complacency.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing data analysis or modeling, clarify the specific factors contributing to the "false sense of reliability", such as neglected uncertainties or unpredictable fluctuations, to provide a more nuanced understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "false sense of reliability" in contexts where a genuine effort has been made to ensure reliability. Reserve it for situations where the reliability is demonstrably flawed or misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "false sense of reliability" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes an inaccurate or misleading perception of something's dependability. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is indeed correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "false sense of reliability" describes a situation where something is perceived as more dependable than it actually is. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While grammatically sound, it appears relatively infrequently. It's crucial to use this phrase when cautioning against misplaced trust, particularly where data analysis, security measures, or other forms of assessment are involved. Alternatives like "illusory dependability" or "misleading perception of accuracy" can offer nuanced expression. Remember to use this phrase judiciously and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

illusory dependability

Focuses on the deceptive nature of the perceived reliability.

misleading perception of accuracy

Highlights the incorrect assessment of accuracy rather than reliability.

unfounded belief in soundness

Emphasizes the lack of basis for trusting the soundness of something.

deceptive appearance of trustworthiness

Stresses the misleading outward impression of being trustworthy.

superficial impression of validity

Indicates that the validity seems present only on the surface.

specious assurance of stability

Highlights that the stability is based on false reasoning.

artificial sense of security

Emphasizes the contrived and unnatural feeling of safety.

sham guarantee of performance

Underscores that the guarantee is fake or worthless.

contrived semblance of dependability

Focuses on the artificially created image of dependability.

empty promise of consistency

Highlights the lack of actual consistency despite the promise.

FAQs

How can I use "false sense of reliability" in a sentence?

You can use "false sense of reliability" to describe situations where something appears more reliable than it actually is. For example: "The initial positive results gave a "false sense of reliability", leading to premature conclusions."

What's a good alternative to "false sense of reliability"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "illusory dependability", "misleading perception of accuracy", or "unfounded belief in soundness".

What does it mean when something gives a "false sense of reliability"?

It means that it creates an impression of being trustworthy or dependable, but this impression is not accurate or justified. It suggests a hidden risk or flaw that undermines the apparent reliability.

Is it always negative to create a "false sense of reliability"?

Yes, the term carries a negative connotation. It implies deception or a misjudgment of risk. It warns against trusting something that seems safe but actually isn't.