FALL FOUL Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "fall foul" is an idiomatic expression that typically conveys the idea of getting into trouble, encountering difficulties, or experiencing conflict with someone or something. It is often used to describe situations that involve disagreement, misunderstanding, or a clash of interests leading to negative consequences or disputes.
The term "fall foul" is frequently used in contexts where someone has become entangled in an unfavorable or unanticipated situation. It implies that the person has unintentionally or unwittingly gotten themselves into trouble, often through a misjudgment, mistake, or unfortunate circumstance.
For instance, if someone violates a rule or regulation, they may "fall foul" of the authorities, resulting in penalties or legal consequences. Similarly, when a person becomes embroiled in a heated argument or dispute with another individual or group, it can be said that they have "fallen foul" of that person or group.
Additionally, the phrase can also be used to describe situations where someone is adversely affected by external factors, such as falling foul of bad weather conditions, economic downturns, or other unforeseen events that hinder their progress or wellbeing.
In summary, "fall foul" refers to encountering trouble, facing difficulties, or becoming entangled in adverse circumstances due to errors, conflicts, misunderstandings, or unforeseen events. It conveys the idea of experiencing negative consequences, conflicts, or disputes as a result of one's actions or external factors.
Common Misspellings for FALL FOUL
- dall foul
- call foul
- vall foul
- gall foul
- tall foul
- rall foul
- fzll foul
- fsll foul
- fwll foul
- fqll foul
- fakl foul
- fapl foul
- faol foul
- falk foul
- falp foul
- falo foul
- fall doul
- fall coul
- fall voul
- fall goul
Etymology of FALL FOUL
The phrase "fall foul" has its origins in Middle English and comes from two separate components: "fall" and "foul".
1. Fall: The word "fall" can be traced back to Old English "feallan" which means "to fall or collapse". It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as German "fallen" and Dutch "vallen".
2. Foul: The term "foul" is derived from Old English "fugol" or "fugel", meaning "bird". Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include "foul-smelling" or "offensive", likely due to the unpleasant smell associated with certain birds. From there, it developed further to also describe something disagreeable, objectionable, or morally wrong.
Idioms with the word FALL FOUL
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fall foul of sb
To "fall foul of sb" means to come into conflict or disagreement with someone, often resulting in negative consequences or being at odds with their beliefs or actions.
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fall foul of sb/sth
To "fall foul of sb/sth" means to come into conflict or disagreement with someone or something, often resulting in negative consequences or outcomes.
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fall foul of sth
To fall foul of something means to come into conflict or opposition with something, typically a rule, law, or authority. It can also refer to experiencing negative consequences as a result of violating or not adhering to something.
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fall foul of
To "fall foul of" means to come into conflict or disagreement with someone or something, often resulting in trouble or difficulty. It can also refer to violating a rule or law.
Similar spelling words for FALL FOUL
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