false lead (red herring)
The Spanish phrase 'pista falsa' directly translates to 'false track' or 'false clue'. However, it is commonly used in English to mean 'false lead' or a 'red herring'. Generally used in crime/mystery narratives, it refers to a misleading or distracting information or clue, designed to divert attention away from the real issue or solution.
Don't follow the false lead that they gave you.
This phrase advises someone not to pursue a misleading or incorrect clue that could lead them astray.
The investigation is complicated due to a false lead.
This sentence indicates that the presence of misleading information is making a situation more difficult to resolve.
It's easy to fall into a false lead if you are not careful.
This phrase highlights the risk of being misled and emphasizes the need for caution when evaluating information.