PhrasesHub

Foul play

    Definitions

      • dishonest or illegal activities
        Referring to any type of cheating, fraud, or illegal behavior in a game, sport, or competition

      • suspicion of wrongdoing
        Expressing doubt or suspicion that a person or situation is involved in some type of dishonest or unlawful behavior

      • unpleasant or unfair treatment
        Describing a situation or action that is considered unjust or unethical, often in a social or political context

    Examples of Foul play

    • The police suspect foul play in the disappearance of the businessman.

      The police believe that something criminal or suspicious has happened, possibly involving deliberate wrongdoing, in the disappearance of the businessman.

    • The team's performance in the second half was full of foul play, with multiple infractions committed by the opposing team.

      The team's performance in the second half was marked by unsportsmanlike conduct, such as fouls, trips, and roughhousing, on the part of the opposing team.

    • The company's financial reports raised red flags, suggesting foul play and possible fraud.

      The company's financial reports raised suspicions, indicating signs of wrongdoing, such as deceitful or dishonest business practices, that could potentially lead to fraud.

    • The detective's investigation revealed clear evidence of foul play in the murder case.

      The detective's investigation provided convincing proof of criminal activity, such as violence or deceit, in the murder case.

    • The police are investigating foul play in the disappearance of the business magnate.

      Foul play refers to criminal or underhanded actions that have resulted in the disappearance of the business magnate. It suggests that the disappearance may have been deliberate and not just an accident or disappearance by natural causes.

    • The coach suspected foul play in the defeat of his team.

      The use of "foul play" in this example implies that the coach believes his team was unfairly treated or cheated during the game, resulting in their defeat. It could mean that the opposing team had used underhanded tactics or had broken the rules.

    • The suspect's alibi was full of foul play.

      In this case, "foul play" means that the suspect's alibi appears to be false, misleading, or not entirely truthful. The use of this idiom suggests that there are doubts about the suspect's claim of where he or she was during the time of the crime.

    • The company's financial records showed clear signs of foul play.

      This example means that the company's financial records reveal evidence of criminal or deceitful acts, such as embezzlement, fraud, or other financial misconduct. "Foul play" in this context refers to dishonest or unlawful activities that have affected the company's financial records.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "foul play" is typically used to refer to dishonest or illegal activities, suspicion of wrongdoing, or unpleasant and unfair treatment. It can be used in various contexts, from a game or competition to a social or political situation.

    In the first meaning, "foul play" is used to describe any type of cheating, fraud, or illegal behavior in a game, sport, or competition. This can include actions such as intentionally breaking the rules, using performance-enhancing drugs, or bribing officials. It is often used when there is suspicion that a player or team is not playing fairly or is engaging in underhanded tactics to gain an advantage.

    The second meaning of "foul play" is often used in a more serious context, expressing doubt or suspicion that a person or situation is involved in some type of dishonest or unlawful behavior. This can include criminal activities such as murder, theft, or corruption, and is often used in news headlines or police reports.

    The third meaning of "foul play" is often used to describe a situation or action that is considered unjust or unethical, especially in a social or political context. This can include discrimination, oppression, or abuse of power, and is often used when there is a sense of wrongdoing or injustice that needs to be addressed.

    Origin of "Foul play"

    The origin of the idiom "foul play" can be traced back to the 15th century, where it was used in legal contexts to refer to any type of unlawful behavior or misconduct. The word "foul" comes from the Old English word "ful," meaning "rotten" or "putrid," and has been used to describe something that is morally corrupt or dishonest.

    In the 16th century, the term "foul play" began to be used in a more specific context of sports and games, referring to any type of cheating or breaking the rules. This usage was particularly popular in the world of gambling, where there was a strong emphasis on fair play and honest competition.

    Over time, the term "foul play" has evolved to encompass a wider range of meanings, including suspicion of wrongdoing and unjust treatment. It has become a common phrase in everyday language, used to express doubt, concern, or criticism in various situations.