Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
by-fair-means-or-foul
idiom
/baɪ fɛr minz ɔr faʊl/
Definition
By fair means or foul refers to achieving something by any method possible, whether it be honest or dishonest.
Examples
- She was determined to win the competition by fair means or foul.
- They would get the information by fair means or foul, even if it meant bending the rules.
Meaning
The phrase suggests that one is willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish a goal, regardless of the ethics involved.
Synonyms
- By any means necessary
- No matter what it takes
- At any cost
