setting false expectations for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting false expectations for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing situations where someone is leading others to believe something that is not true or realistic. Example: "The marketing campaign was criticized for setting false expectations for the product's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Gorgeously animated with bursts of bright purple and acid green — the realistic lines of the characters explosively give way to increasingly jagged, graphic and surreal shapes — this number erupts early in the story, setting false expectations for the rest of the movie and its songs and animation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Torah teaches us not to publicly set false expectations for personal gain.

Huffington Post

In this article, I will explore six of the more common myths ones that serve to misconstrue growth hacking methods and goals and set false expectations.

TechCrunch

"Terrell isn't talking about it because he doesn't want to create false expectations for himself, for the Broncos, or for the fans," Schwartz said.

The New York Times - Sports

He said that creative writing courses set up false expectations among students that a literary career will inevitably follow.

The Guardian - Books

T.M.T.I. set extraordinary expectations for itself.

The New Yorker

Set realistic expectations for the timescale for delivery.

The Guardian

Third, we need to set honest expectations for bots.

TechCrunch

"Set realistic expectations for yourself.

Vice

It made me set high expectations for this experience.

Huffington Post

Pitfall #5: You set high expectations for your workouts.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In marketing materials, ensure that you don't "set false expectations for" product capabilities. Accurate representation builds customer confidence and reduces dissatisfaction.

Common error

Avoid using vague language that could "set false expectations for" outcomes. Instead, use specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals to clearly define what can be realistically accomplished.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting false expectations for" functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe the act of creating unrealistic or misleading anticipations about something. This is supported by Ludwig, which identifies it as grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

28%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "setting false expectations for" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of creating unrealistic or misleading anticipations. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is commonly found in news, media, and general advice contexts. To avoid this, communicate transparently and realistically, focusing on specific and achievable goals. Alternatives include "creating unrealistic expectations for" and "raising unfounded hopes for". Be careful not to overpromise results.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

creating unrealistic expectations for

This alternative focuses on the creation of expectations that are not grounded in reality.

giving a misleading impression of

This alternative is about creating a false or inaccurate perception.

raising unfounded hopes for

This phrase highlights the act of instilling hope that lacks a solid basis.

fostering illusory beliefs about

This suggests encouraging beliefs that are based on illusion or misperception.

generating misguided anticipation for

This emphasizes the creation of anticipation that is based on incorrect or flawed information.

cultivating deceptive impressions about

This focuses on the development of impressions that are misleading or untrue.

establishing a false premise for

This phrase refers to creating a wrong basis or foundation for something.

leading someone on with false promises of

This phrase speaks to misleading someone into believing something through insincere commitments.

promoting erroneous assumptions regarding

This highlights the act of encouraging incorrect or inaccurate assumptions.

instilling delusive prospects about

This focuses on implanting prospects that are deceptive and misleading.

FAQs

What does it mean to "set false expectations for" something?

To "set false expectations for" something means to create a belief or anticipation about it that is not accurate or realistic, often leading to disappointment or dissatisfaction.

How can I avoid "setting false expectations for" others?

Be transparent and realistic in your communications. Provide clear and accurate information, and avoid exaggerating or overpromising results. Under-promise and over-deliver whenever possible.

What are some alternatives to saying "setting false expectations for"?

You can use alternatives like "creating unrealistic expectations for", "raising unfounded hopes for", or "giving a misleading impression of" depending on the context.

In what contexts is it most important to avoid "setting false expectations for"?

It's crucial to avoid "setting false expectations for" in professional settings (e.g., project management, marketing), personal relationships, and any situation where trust and reliability are essential. Doing so can damage credibility and create conflict.