foul Definition
- 1offensive to the senses, especially through having a disgusting smell or taste
- 2contrary to the rules or standards; dishonest or unfair
- 3an act of committing an offense in sports or games
Using foul: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "foul" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The foul odor coming from the garbage can made me feel sick.
Example
The player was given a yellow card for a foul tackle.
Example
He was accused of playing a foul game and cheating his opponent.
Example
The meat tasted foul and I couldn't eat it.
Example
The politician's actions were considered foul by the public.
foul Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for foul
Phrases with foul
foul play
unfair or dishonest behavior, especially in a game or sport
Example
The referee suspected foul play and decided to investigate the incident.
Example
The teacher reprimanded the student for using foul language in class.
Example
She woke up in a foul mood and didn't want to talk to anyone.
Origins of foul
from Old English 'fūl', meaning 'rotten, decayed'
Summary: foul in Brief
The term 'foul' [faʊl] describes something that is unpleasant to the senses, such as a bad smell or taste. It also refers to actions that are contrary to the rules or standards, like cheating or dishonesty. In sports or games, 'foul' denotes an offense. Phrases like 'foul play' and 'foul language' extend the concept of unfairness and offensiveness to specific contexts.
