Definition

In a situation where something is tangled or in conflict with something else.

Example

The ship ran afoul of the rocks during the storm.

Conversation

I heard you got into an argument with Tom.

Yeah, things got a bit afoul during the meeting.

That's too bad, I thought you two were on good terms.

We usually are, but sometimes opinions clash unexpectedly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Afoul originates from the Middle English 'afoul', which is a combination of 'a-' (a prefix indicating a state or condition) and 'foul' (meaning dirty or unpleasant). The term describes a state of being in a foul condition or entangled in something undesirable.

Memory Tip

Think of being in a 'foul' state, which helps you remember that 'afoul' means being in a bad or tangled situation.

Visually Confused Words