The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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foil

verb

/fɔɪl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of foil

To prevent the success or fulfillment of something, typically a plan, plot, or intention, by acting as an obstacle or hindrance.
"The security guard's quick thinking helped foil the terrorist attack."

Detailed meaning of foil

When one 'foils' another, they thwart or obstruct their efforts, often by outsmarting them or by intervening in a way that disrupts their plans. This term conveys the idea of a strategic move or counteraction aimed at frustrating an opponent or preventing an undesirable outcome. 'Foil' can also refer to the act of contrasting or highlighting the qualities or characteristics of one thing by juxtaposing it with another. In this sense, it emphasizes the role of one element in enhancing or contrasting with another to bring out its significance or qualities.

Example sentences containing foil

1. The detective was able to foil the burglar's plan to steal the valuable painting.
2. The superhero worked tirelessly to foil the evil plans of the supervillain.
3. The athlete's impressive performance helped foil the opponent's attempt to win the game.
4. The teacher's timely intervention was able to foil the student's plan to cheat on the exam.
5. The government's strict regulations were put in place to foil the illegal trade of endangered species.
6. The company's security system was designed to foil any attempts of hacking or cyber-attacks.

History and etymology of foil

The word 'foil' as a verb, meaning to prevent the success or fulfillment of something, has its roots in Middle English and Old French. It can be traced back to the Old French word 'foil,' which meant 'to trample' or 'to tread on.' This Old French term itself came from the Latin word 'follis,' which referred to a leather bag or bellows. Over time, the sense of 'foil' evolved to signify the act of thwarting or hindering someone's plans or intentions, much like the notion of stepping on or trampling them. Thus, the etymology of the verb 'foil' reflects its historical connection to the idea of obstructing or impeding progress or success.

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Further usage examples of foil

1. The group's clever strategy was able to foil the enemy's ambush.
2. The firefighter's bravery helped foil the raging fire and saved many lives.
3. The scientist's groundbreaking research was able to foil the spread of a deadly disease.
4. The police were able to foil the bank robbery and arrest the suspects.
5. The traveler's caution and awareness were able to foil the pickpocket's attempt to steal their wallet.
6. The detective worked diligently to foil the criminal's escape plan.
7. Their teamwork helped foil the enemy's ambush.
8. She managed to foil his attempt to cheat on the exam.
9. The security measures in place helped foil the cyberattack.
10. The hero's quick thinking allowed him to foil the villain's scheme.
11. The clever strategy was designed to foil the opponent's defense.
12. The timely intervention of the police helped foil the bank robbery.
13. The unexpected setback threatened to foil their project's success.
14. She used her knowledge of psychology to foil his manipulation.
15. The antivirus software worked effectively to foil malware attacks.
16. His persistence paid off as he managed to foil their resistance.
17. The clever disguise helped him foil his pursuers.
18. The elaborate plan was meant to foil their rivals.
19. The unexpected rainstorm threatened to foil their outdoor event.
20. The whistleblower's revelations could foil their corrupt scheme.
21. The unexpected change in weather conditions could foil their mission.
22. The detective's keen observations helped foil the criminal's plan.
23. The hero's determination was unwavering as he sought to foil evil.
24. The vigilant security team was always ready to foil any threats.
25. The rival company sought to foil their competitor's expansion plans.