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Afoul Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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afoul

[əˈfuːl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

general usage

Afoul means in conflict or in danger of conflict. It is often used to describe situations where something is entangled or obstructed, particularly in a way that leads to trouble or difficulty.

Synonyms

entangled, in conflict, opposed.

Examples of usage

  • The boat ran afoul of the shore.
  • His actions often bring him afoul of the law.
  • They found themselves afoul of the committee's regulations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, 'afoul' can symbolize confusion and disorder, often used to enhance the drama of a narrative.
  • Classic works sometimes use the term to depict a character's downfall when they become entangled in their own troubles.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'afoul' appears in various classic maritime films and novels, reinforcing themes of conflict and misadventure.
  • Even in modern language, we often hear phrases like 'getting afoul of the law', which reflects characters facing troubles in films and books.

Psychology

  • 'Afoul' can describe psychological states where individuals feel trapped by their circumstances or past actions, often leading to feelings of regret or frustration.
  • In therapeutic contexts, discussing being 'afoul' can help individuals recognize patterns that lead to self-sabotage.

History

  • Marine history records many instances where ships went afoul of storms, leading to legendary shipwrecks and tales of survival.
  • Pirate lore often reflects the term as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of both sea travel and betrayal among crews.

Origin of 'afoul'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'afoul' comes from a combination of 'a-' (meaning 'in a state of') and 'foul', which originated from Old English and meant bad or unpleasant.
  • It's often used in nautical contexts, where it describes ropes or sails getting tangled or caught.

The term 'afoul' has its origins in Middle English, evolving from 'a foul' which implies being entangled or obstructed. Over time, it became a single adverb describing situations where something is in a state of conflict or trouble. Its use is rare in modern English, mostly appearing in nautical contexts or figurative expressions. The prefix 'a-' suggests a state of being, while 'foul' conveys notions of something being spoiled or in disarray, which conveys the essence of disorder or conflict. The term is related to various compounds and idioms that convey caution against pitfalls and dangers, cementing its place in English vernacular as a descriptive term for problematic situations.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,183, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.