verb

foil

/fɔɪl/ · say it: FOYL

to frustrate a plan

In Actions & Behavior

a character whose contrast highlights another

In Literary English

In more detail

1. (verb) to prevent someone from succeeding in their plans

2. (noun) a thin sheet of metal, usually aluminum

3. (noun) a character whose qualities contrast with another character to highlight their traits

Examples

The security system foiled the robbery attempt.
She wrapped the leftovers in aluminum foil.
The villain serves as a foil to the hero's bravery.

How to use foil

As a verb, foil means to stop someone's plans or prevent success, often used in narratives about crime prevention or conflict. It is more dramatic and forceful than simply 'prevent.' As a noun, it refers both to thin metal sheets (especially in cooking) and to a literary device where a character contrasts with another to emphasize specific traits.

Common phrases

foil a plot
foil an attempt
foil someone's plans
aluminum foil
a perfect foil for

Synonyms

thwart · frustrate · block · prevent · derail

Opposites

assist · enable · help

Word family

foiled · foiling · foils

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse foil (to thwart) with fail, or mistakenly use it with 'up' (foil up is not standard); the correct form is simply 'foil' without a particle.

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