Cry foul Meaning in English
expression
التعريف
To publicly complain or protest that something is unfair, dishonest, or against the rules, especially in sports, competitions, or business.
الاستخدام والفروق الدقيقة
Mostly used in sports and formal contexts to signal unfairness or cheating. Often appears after a controversial decision. It's always figurative, not about literal crying. Can also be used in politics or business when someone claims rules are broken.
جمل نموذجية
The team cried foul after the referee gave a red card.
basic
She cried foul when her idea was ignored in the meeting.
basic
Many fans cried foul over the judge's decision.
basic
Small businesses cried foul when the new law raised taxes.
natural
The candidate cried foul after losing, blaming unfair counting.
natural
Every time there's a tough call, they cry foul and ask for a review.
natural