CEFR B2

foul up

phrasal verb

Meaning

To make a serious mistake or error, causing a plan, process, or situation to fail or become confused.

Examples

  • The new intern managed to foul up the entire database entry process on his first day.
  • Despite careful planning, a sudden power outage caused the whole concert production to foul up.

Synonyms: err, miscalculate, mess up, screw up