Choose the correct meaning of the idiom:
'Fell foul of'
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
To get into a conflict or trouble with someone
Explanation
The idiom "fell foul of" (or "run foul of") means to get into trouble, experience a disagreement, or violate a rule or law, resulting in conflict with an authority or individual. Originally, it was a nautical term used to describe a ship colliding or becoming entangled with another vessel or an obstacle. Over time, it transitioned into figurative language to represent any situation where someone finds themselves in opposition or trouble with others.
To break down why the other choices do not fit the definition:
"To make an unexpected profit" implies a sudden financial gain, which is completely unrelated to the negative connotation of foul behavior or conflict.
"To avoid a conflict successfully" is the exact opposite of what the phrase means, as the phrase implies active entanglement in a dispute.
"To behave in a funny way" suggests humor or eccentricity, whereas the idiom specifically denotes a serious clash, struggle, or legal infraction.
Key Points
Core Definition Fell foul of means to come into conflict, clash, or get into trouble with a person, institution, or regulation.
Grammatical Role Idiomatic verbal phrase typically followed by the preposition "with" or "of" to introduce the entity with whom the conflict occurs.