run afoul

USAGE SUMMARY

"run afoul" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to mean "to go or act against the law or a rule in some way." For example, "He ran afoul of the company policy and was fired."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You run afoul of the law (Edwards).

The New York Times

There are worse ways to run afoul of the law.

The New York Times

Such conduct can quickly run afoul of the law.

The New York Times

Such declarations would run afoul of federal regulations.

The New York Times

Such behavior could run afoul of securities manipulation laws.

The New York Times

Ohio State has run afoul of the N.C.A.A. recently.

The New York Times - Sports

Both sprinters have run afoul of antidoping rules.

The New York Times - Sports

(He, too, had run afoul of the Nashi youth movement).

The New York Times

Mr. Ai has run afoul of the authorities before.

The New York Times

The bank has run afoul of regulators before.

The New York Times

Sontag had run afoul of a banal but inescapable problem.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "run afoul" when you want to indicate that someone or something is in violation of a rule, law, or regulation. It's often used in formal writing and carries a slightly negative connotation.

Common error

While "run afoul" is generally acceptable, avoid using it in extremely casual conversations. Opt for phrases like "get into trouble with" or "clash with" for a more relaxed tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run afoul" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate in a sentence. It describes an action of coming into conflict or violating a rule or law, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "run afoul" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a violation or conflict, especially with rules or laws. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is most commonly found in news and business contexts. While not overly formal, it's best suited for neutral to professional communication. When aiming for a more casual tone, consider alternatives like "get into trouble with". With its widespread use and clear meaning, "run afoul" remains a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fall foul of

A more British English variant of the original phrase, carrying the same meaning.

come into conflict with

This alternative suggests a clash or disagreement, often implying a more gradual process than a sudden violation.

clash with

Implies a direct confrontation or disagreement with rules or authority.

violate

This is a direct synonym emphasizing the act of breaking a rule or law.

contravene

Highlights a direct opposition or contradiction of a law or principle.

transgress

Implies exceeding limits or boundaries, often in a moral or ethical sense.

infringe upon

Focuses on encroaching or violating someone's rights or territory.

be at odds with

Suggests a state of disagreement or opposition, often in a more abstract or philosophical sense.

get into trouble with

A more informal way of expressing that someone has violated rules or laws, typically implying negative consequences.

step out of line

Suggests a deviation from accepted behavior or norms, often in a social context.

FAQs

How can I use "run afoul" in a sentence?

You can use "run afoul" to indicate that someone or something is violating a rule, law, or standard. For example: "The company "ran afoul" of environmental regulations."

What does "run afoul" mean?

The phrase "run afoul" means to come into conflict with something, especially a law or rule. It suggests a violation or transgression.

What can I say instead of "run afoul"?

You can use alternatives like "come into conflict with", "violate", or "fall foul of" depending on the context.

Is it more common to "run afoul" or "fall foul"?

"Run afoul" and "fall foul of" are both correct, but "run afoul" is more common in American English, while "fall foul of" is more prevalent in British English.