# foul up

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/foul-up
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To make a mistake, to go wrong.

## Examples

- I hope I do not foul up this simple task.
- The team worked hard on the project, but they managed to foul up the final report by missing the deadline.
- Despite his extensive preparation and years of experience, the diplomat feared he might foul up the delicate negotiations during the high-stakes summit.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.