Cry foul

usgb
verb phrase

To complain openly and loudly that something is not fair.

When the referee made a controversial call, the losing team cried foul.
Visual representation of "cry foul" - To complain openly and loudly that something is not fair.

Often appears as...

  • cry foul at
  • cry foul over

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "cry foul"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Expressing Unfairness

Use 'cry foul' when something feels unjust or against established rules.

Illustration for Expressing Unfairness
Everyone cried foul when the new policy cut vacation days without warning.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Strong Emotion

Emphasizes strong dissatisfaction or anger about a perceived injustice.

Illustration for Strong Emotion
Fans cried foul after the concert was canceled at the last minute.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Public Complaint

Suggests a complaint voiced openly in a public setting, not privately.

Illustration for Public Complaint
Workers cried foul over the unfair dress code in a meeting.
Visual representation of the word "Cry foul"

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