Is it possible to set the test case failed reason that is used in the reports?

This question came up a couple of days ago when going through a TestSuite Report with other team members. Is it possible to set the test case failed reason to a custom message? Currently when a TestCase fails the report simply shows the reason as 'Failing due to failed test step', and I was asked "That's a bit vague, any chance of getting a more descriptive message there." This leads to another question, what other reasons are there? I checked back in a few reports and all I ever see is "Failing due to failed test step." I looked through the javadocs and gained no particular insight there.

ps. I would love for there to be a "Curiosity" label for questions like these. 😼