Afoul/əˈfaʊl/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Conflict Context Used when describing situations where there's a clash with rules, plans, or opinions. He found himself afoul of the new company policy. Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Use Often used metaphorically to mean 'in trouble' with authority or law. Since the scandal, the politician's career ran afoul of public opinion. Pro Tip 3/3Negative Outcome Implies an unfavorable result arising from a conflict or complication. Their agreement fell afoul of governmental scrutiny.