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Foregrounding: meaning, definitions and examples

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foregrounding

 

[ ˈfɔrˌɡraʊndɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

literary theory

Foregrounding refers to a linguistic feature that makes certain elements of a text more prominent or noticeable, often highlighting their significance within the narrative. This concept is used in literary criticism to analyze how authors manipulate language to structure meaning and influence reader perception. Foregrounding can involve various techniques like deviation from norms, repetition, or the strategic arrangement of elements within a text.

Synonyms

emphasis, highlighting, prominence

Examples of usage

  • The poet's use of unusual syntax creates foregrounding.
  • Foregrounding in the novel emphasizes the protagonist's internal conflict.
  • The dramatic foregrounding of imagery enriches the narrative depth.
Context #2 | Noun

art and design

In art and visual design, foregrounding often refers to the placement of elements that draw attention in the forefront of a composition, contrasting with the background. This technique is essential for creating depth and guiding viewer focus within artistic creations. Effective foregrounding can enhance the overall impact and aesthetic quality of a piece.

Synonyms

accentuation, centralization, focal point

Examples of usage

  • The artist used foregrounding to capture the viewer's attention.
  • Foregrounding in the painting draws focus to the main figures.
  • The photograph's composition benefits from effective foregrounding.

Translations

Translations of the word "foregrounding" in other languages:

🇵🇹 destaque

🇮🇳 मुख्य पृष्ठभूमि

🇩🇪 Hervorhebung

🇮🇩 penonjolan

🇺🇦 висвітлення

🇵🇱 wyróżnienie

🇯🇵 フォアグラウンド

🇫🇷 mise en avant

🇪🇸 destacar

🇹🇷 ön plana çıkarma

🇰🇷 전경

🇸🇦 إبراز

🇨🇿 zvýraznění

🇸🇰 vyzdvihovanie

🇨🇳 前景

🇸🇮 izpostavljanje

🇮🇸 framhlið

🇰🇿 алдыңғы жоспар

🇬🇪 წინა ფონური

🇦🇿 ön plana çıxarma

🇲🇽 destacar

Word origin

The term 'foregrounding' emerged in the mid-20th century, primarily in the field of linguistics and literary theory. It originated from the combination of the prefix 'fore-', meaning 'in front of', and the word 'ground', which in this context refers to the background or context setting. As language and its structures were increasingly analyzed during the rise of structuralism, scholars like Viktor Shklovsky and Roman Jakobson discussed how certain aspects of language and texts could be foregrounded to affect interpretation. This concept evolved through various critiques and discussions within literary circles, leading to broader applications in areas such as art, film, and visual communication. Foregrounding is now recognized as a vital analytical tool for understanding how emphasis and focus can alter perception in both written and visual media.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,355 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.