Running gag in my group: player “are there any traps?” - dm “looks clear”
player: rolls stealth check
DM: you think you’re hiding
The DM tells you what you perceive, not what actually is.
I get that, but at a certain level of roll it needs to be a definitive answer. Even if you don’t beat the DC, a roll like 25 should at least get something back like, “You don’t know why but you’re getting bad vibes.”
Otherwise players just feel lost and like the character’s expertise means nothing.
Respond to the player with a question, “Are you searching for traps?”
“None that you can see” is a fun response. Especially on a high roll, if you’re rolling knowledge and perception checks in the open. Gets 'em good and weirded out.