In the scoring system of ten-pin bowling, the letter “F” typically indicates a foul. A foul occurs when a bowler’s foot crosses the foul line during the delivery of the ball. When a foul is committed, the pins knocked down on that particular delivery do not count, and no score is awarded for those pins. For example, if a bowler’s foot slips over the line while attempting a strike, even if all ten pins are knocked down, the frame will record a foul and a score of zero for that attempt.
The enforcement of the foul line is a critical aspect of fair play in the sport. It prevents bowlers from gaining an unfair advantage by moving closer to the pins than permitted. The rule has been a long-standing element of bowling regulations, ensuring consistency and integrity across different levels of competition, from recreational leagues to professional tournaments. Its presence deters the improper reduction of the distance between the bowler and the pins.