Technically correct, but look deeper: Why is this mistake prevalent? What are people trying to say that causes them to borrow (misuse) another phrase to expres

Technically correct, but look deeper: Why is this mistake prevalent? What are people trying to say that causes them to borrow (misuse) another phrase to express it? This indicates a "hole" in the language that is filled with the wrong item. Like a code review, do better than just saying "This line is wrong". Suggest an alternative. Especially one that flows naturally into the prose.