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Foul

UK //faʊl// US //faʊl// Pronunciation

Definition

A violation of rules or an unfair act in a sport.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A bad or unfair action in a game or sport.

Examples

• He received a yellow card for a 'foul' during the match.
• That was a blatant 'foul'; the referee must give a penalty.
• In basketball, a 'foul' can lead to free throws.

Usage notes

Commonly used in sports contexts to describe illegal actions. Avoid in formal writing unless discussing rules.

Grammar pattern

foul + object

Memory hint

Think of 'foul' as 'found foul' smells – things that are bad.

Collocations

• commit a foul
• serious foul
• foul play

Synonyms

• violation
• infraction
• penalty
• wrongdoing

Antonyms

• fair play
• honor

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'fowl', which means bird.
• Using 'foul' in a non-sport context incorrectly.
• Mistaking 'foul' for 'foul play' when discussing wrongdoing.