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Afoul: meaning, definitions and examples

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afoul

 

[ əˈfuːl ]

Adverb
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

Translations of the word "afoul" in other languages:

🇵🇹 em conflito

🇮🇳 विपरीत

🇩🇪 in Konflikt

🇮🇩 bertentangan

🇺🇦 в конфлікті

🇵🇱 w konflikcie

🇯🇵 対立している

🇫🇷 en conflit

🇪🇸 en conflicto

🇹🇷 çatışmada

🇰🇷 충돌하는

🇸🇦 في صراع

🇨🇿 v konfliktu

🇸🇰 v konflikte

🇨🇳 处于冲突中

🇸🇮 v konfliktu

🇮🇸 í átökum

🇰🇿 конфликтте

🇬🇪 შეურიგებელია

🇦🇿 münaqişədə

🇲🇽 en conflicto

Word origin

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.