Chapter 5 – Test Management
False Positive – ISTQB Definition
Last Updated: July 12, 2026 · SoftwareTestPilot QA Team
Official ISTQB Definition
A test result which indicates a defect where none exists.
In simple words
Test says fail, but the software is actually fine — often flaky tests or bad data.
Exam tip
Too many false positives destroy trust in your test suite.
Related terms
- Flaky TestA test that sometimes passes and sometimes fails on the same build — usually a timing or environment issue.
- False NegativeTest says pass, but there is a real bug — the worst kind of miss.
- Test OracleWhatever tells you what the ‘right’ answer should be — a requirement, a spec, a previous version, or even an experienced user.
Practice this term in the ISTQB Mock Test
40 CTFL v4.0 questions, 60-minute timer, instant scoring and chapter-wise breakdown.
Practice in Mock Test