foil
/fɔɪl/
Group 24Difficulty 1/3
Definitions
- (verb)
- To prevent something from succeeding; to frustrate GRE
- (noun)
- A person or thing that contrasts with and so emphasizes the qualities of another GRE
Example in Context
Security services foiled the plot to attack the embassy, arresting the suspects before they could assemble the necessary materials.
Synonyms
blockthwartprevent
Etymology
Originally, a thin sheet of metal used to prevent success, like wrapping something to protect it.
- folia (Latin) — leaf
Memory Aid
🚫Sounds like “foil”
A superhero called the FOIL who prevents villains from succeeding by wrapping their evil plans in shiny metal!
Visual Association
🙅♂️A knight in shining armor blocking arrows with a large foil sheet, successfully FOILING the enemy's attack.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “foil” mean on the GRE?
foil (verb) means “To prevent something from succeeding; to frustrate”. Security services foiled the plot to attack the embassy, arresting the suspects before they could assemble the necessary materials.
How to remember “foil” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “foil” sounds like “foil”. A superhero called the FOIL who prevents villains from succeeding by wrapping their evil plans in shiny metal!
What are synonyms for “foil”?
Common synonyms: block, thwart, prevent.