cry foul

phrase

: to complain that someone has done something unfair
crying foul over the change in the rules

Examples of cry foul in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In considering an exemption for some film tax credits, lawmakers have been mindful that tech companies would cry foul over a full carveout and demand a carveout of their own. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 18 Aug. 2026 The Internet armchair critics crying foul and other automakers squinting real hard can all stop wondering, questioning, and doubting whether the Ford Mustang GTD Competition achieved the unthinkable on street-legal tires. — Joel Feder, The Drive, 13 Aug. 2026 The National Union of Journalists cried foul, calling this move a clear attempt to undermine collective bargaining. — Milad Jalalian Ebrahimi, The Conversation, 29 July 2026 Two of the 10 losing bidders cried foul, and are suing to put a stop to the contract. — Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cry foul

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cry foul was in 1839

Rhymes for cry foul

See All Rhymes for cry foul

Browse Nearby Words

cry for the moon
cry foul
cry havoc
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cry foul.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cry%20foul. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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