false move
Regrettable tactical error
A false move is an action that could trigger disaster—the wrong step when you're in a precarious position.
The phrase implies high stakes and watchful adversaries: One false move and the whole deal falls apart.
It appears constantly in threats: One false move and I'll shoot.
The move is false not because it's deceptive but because it's mistaken.
- faux pasSocial misstep or indiscretion
- slipupUnintentional minor error
- misplayError during competition
- bad callErroneous judgment or decision
- misstepError in action or judgment
miscalculation · tactical error · misreading · botch · rookie mistake · misconception · stumble · category error · oversight · blunder · poor judgment · overestimation · gaffe · slip of the tongue · overconfidence · fatal flaw · error · assumption
false movestrategic move
Purposeful action for advantage
masterstroke · safe bet · sound judgment · winning move · measured response
false movesaving grace
Compensating good quality
stroke of genius · lucky break · coup · breakthrough · game-changer
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