foul

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. stormy, rainy, or generally unpleasant weather.

adj. pertaining to weather conditions that are stormy, turbulent, or otherwise unfavourable for travel.

“The ship stayed in the harbour because of the foul weather at sea.”

“Despite the foul weather forecast, the rescue team proceeded toward the summit to locate the stranded climbers.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. using rude, offensive, or socially unacceptable words.

adj. characterised by obscene, vulgar, or abusive language.

“He was sent out of the classroom for using foul language.”

“The broadcast was interrupted after the interviewee began using foul language during the live segment.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. not following the rules or being dishonest.

adj. violating the established rules of a game or the standards of fair play.

“The politician was accused of using foul means to win the election.”

“The referee ruled that the defender had used foul tactics to prevent the striker from reaching the ball.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to make something dirty, especially with waste.

v. to contaminate or defile something with unclean matter.

Español:ensuciar

“Dogs are not allowed on the beach so they don't foul the sand.”

“Industrial runoff continued to foul the river, making the water toxic for the local fish population.”

C1 · Advanced Science Technical

v. to block a pipe or get a rope tangled up.

v. to obstruct or clog a passage; in a nautical context, to become entangled or caught.

Español:enredar

“The anchor line became fouled on some rocks under the water.”

“The mechanic explained that carbon deposits had fouled the spark plugs, causing the engine to misfire during acceleration.”

B1 · Intermediate Sports

v. to commit an unfair act against another player in a game.

v. to commit an infraction against an opponent or the rules of play in a sporting contest.

“The defender fouled the striker just outside the penalty area.”

“He was careful not to foul the shooter, knowing that any contact would result in two free throws for the opposing team.”

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Sports

n. an action in a game that is against the rules.

n. an instance of breaking the rules in a sport, often involving illegal physical contact.

“The referee blew his whistle and called a foul on the blue team.”

“After committing his fifth personal foul, the star player was forced to leave the game for the remaining minutes.”