fall foul

The phrase 'fall foul' originates from nautical terminology and has evolved to describe various forms of conflict or violation.

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Definition

C1General

(common)To come into conflict with someone or something, often resulting in trouble.

Example

He fell foul of the law and was arrested for his actions.
The company fell foul of environmental regulations and faced heavy fines.

C1Law

(legal)To violate a rule, law, or regulation, leading to potential consequences.

Example

The business fell foul of tax laws and had to pay a large penalty.

B2Interpersonal

(informal)To have a disagreement or quarrel with someone.

Example

She fell foul of her colleagues over the new project plan.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "fall foul":

foul up foul out run afoul of fall due fall to fall on fall out foul play fall up fall for fall through fall in fall down on fall down fall into take the fall foul one's own nest fall into a trap fall over fall from grace come a cropper fall behind fall back fall upon fall together foul line double fault slip up fall off catch out go wrong flake out go awry take a tumble falling out foul feeder fall to the ground trip up fall flat on one's face fall away get into trouble drop the ball time fault fall into oneself fall in with miss the mark