foul attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "foul attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an effort that is considered morally wrong, unethical, or poorly executed. Example: "His foul attempt to cheat during the exam did not go unnoticed by the proctor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Had Carrick gone to ground, as many a wily striker would have done, he would have gained a penalty and Muslera would almost certainly have been sent off for a deliberate foul attempt to prevent a goal-scoring opportunity.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Soon after, a bipartisan chorus of charter supporters cried foul attempting to present the so- called choice offered by charters, as well as other attributes of corporate education reform, as the next logical step in the Civil Rights Movement.

Huffington Post

Richmond (5-4) titd it when Mike Skrocki was fouled attempting a 3-pointer and made all three free throws with 3 30 remaining.

The New York Times - Sports

Derrick Favors had a chance to tie the game as he was fouled attempting a layup.

Huffington Post

Soriano tried to bunt Wilson over, but he fouled his attempt and ended up striking out.

The New York Times - Sports

"That's the way you have to look at it". Davis checked in four minutes into the game for Kevin Garnett, who received his second foul by attempting to karate chop Howard's arm free of him.

The New York Times - Sports

After the first month of the 2012 baseball season, Albert Pujols is homerless, Bobby Valentine seems to already be on the hot seat in Boston, the Orioles have been hovering around first place in the AL East and the fans' unorthodox foul ball attempts are increasing at a rapid pace.

Huffington Post

Fouled while attempting a 3-pointer, he missed all three free throws.

The New York Times - Sports

After a UConn timeout, Renee Montgomery was fouled while attempting a 3-pointer.

The New York Times - Sports

After the pinch-hitter Dave Berg fouled out attempting to bunt, Luis Castillo grounded out, advancing Bautista to third.

The New York Times - Sports

Thomas, who was fouled while attempting a dunk, had to be helped off the court, then carried to the locker room.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "foul attempt" to describe actions that are not only unsuccessful but also considered morally wrong or unfair. This emphasizes both the failure and the ethical issue.

Common error

Avoid using "foul attempt" when a more neutral phrase like "failed attempt" or "unsuccessful effort" would suffice. "Foul" carries a strong negative connotation and is best reserved for situations where ethical wrongdoing is involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "foul attempt" functions as a noun phrase where "foul" modifies "attempt". It is used to describe an action or effort that is both unsuccessful and morally reprehensible. Ludwig indicates this usage is acceptable and correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "foul attempt" is used to describe actions that are both unsuccessful and morally questionable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and acceptability in written English. While not extremely frequent, it appears in various contexts, most notably in News & Media. Its negative connotation makes it suitable for expressing disapproval. Related phrases offer varying degrees of condemnation, and understanding these nuances allows for more precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despicable attempt

Replaces "foul" with a stronger, more condemning adjective.

unfair attempt

Focuses on the lack of equity rather than the moral aspect.

dishonest effort

Emphasizes the lack of integrity in the undertaking.

unethical approach

Shifts from a specific action to a general method, highlighting moral concerns.

dirty tactic

Highlights the underhanded or unsportsmanlike nature of the attempt.

illegitimate move

Suggests the attempt breaks established rules or laws.

corrupt endeavor

Implicates moral decay or inducement to wrong by improper or unlawful means.

immoral scheme

Highlights the unethical nature of the plan behind the attempt.

treacherous play

Implies betrayal or deceit as part of the attempt.

deceitful maneuver

Emphasizes the misleading nature of the attempt.

FAQs

How can I use "foul attempt" in a sentence?

You can use "foul attempt" to describe an action or endeavor that is not only unsuccessful but also considered morally wrong or unfair. For example, "His foul attempt to cheat during the exam was immediately reported."

What are some alternatives to "foul attempt"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "despicable attempt", "unfair attempt", or "dishonest effort".

When is it appropriate to use "foul attempt" over "failed attempt"?

"Foul attempt" should be used when the attempt is not only unsuccessful but also involves unethical or unfair behavior. "Failed attempt" is a more neutral term for simply an unsuccessful try.

Is "foul attempt" formal or informal language?

"Foul attempt" is relatively neutral language, suitable for news articles and general writing. The term "foul" itself adds a negative connotation, implying unethical behavior.