Afoul definitions
| Word backwards | luofa |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Adverb |
| Syllabic division | a-foul |
| Plural | The plural of the word "afoul" is "afoul." It is an invariant noun, meaning it does not change form when made plural. |
| Total letters | 5 |
| Vogais (3) | a,o,u |
| Consonants (2) | f,l |
When someone is described as being "afoul" of something, it means that they are in a state of conflict or disagreement with a rule, law, or standard. This term is often used in legal contexts to indicate that someone has violated a regulation or committed a wrongdoing.
Origin and Meaning
The word "afoul" originated in the early 18th century and is derived from the combination of the prefix "a-" meaning "in a state of" and the word "foul" meaning "offensive or unpleasant." When someone is said to be afoul of something, it suggests that they are entangled or in conflict with a particular rule or principle.
Usage in Law
In legal contexts, being afoul of the law means that someone has violated a statute or regulation. This could be something as simple as a traffic violation or as serious as a criminal offense. When someone is found to be afoul of the law, they may face consequences such as fines, penalties, or even imprisonment.
Common Usage
Besides its legal usage, "afoul" can also be used in a more general sense to mean being in conflict or disagreement with something. For example, if someone's actions are afoul of social norms, it means that they are behaving in a way that goes against accepted standards of behavior.
It is essential to understand the context in which the term "afoul" is used to grasp its meaning fully. Whether in a legal setting or a more casual conversation, being afoul of something indicates a violation or conflict that needs to be resolved.
Afoul Examples
- The ship ran afoul of a fierce storm.
- The new regulations could put the company afoul of the law.
- The politician found himself afoul of public opinion.
- The company's expansion plans may run afoul of budget constraints.
- The athlete was warned not to run afoul of doping regulations.
- The neighbors' loud parties often put them afoul of noise ordinances.
- The student's prank went afoul when it damaged school property.
- The CEO's controversial statements put the company afoul of investors.
- The chef's experiment with exotic ingredients went afoul, resulting in a terrible dish.
- The hiker unknowingly ventured afoul of a protected wildlife area.