Foreshadowing: meaning, definitions and examples

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foreshadowing

 

[ ˈfɔːrˌʃæd.oʊ.ɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

literature

Foreshadowing is a literary device in which a writer gives an advance hint of what is to come later in the story. It often appears at the beginning of a story, or a chapter, and helps the reader anticipate the outcome.

Synonyms

omen, premonition, sign

Examples of usage

  • His nightmares were a foreshadowing of the tragedy that would soon unfold.
  • The mysterious stranger's warning was a foreshadowing of the danger lurking ahead.
  • The dark storm clouds were a foreshadowing of the impending chaos.
Context #2 | Verb

film

In film, foreshadowing is a technique used to hint at events that will occur later in the movie. It creates suspense and prepares the audience for what is to come.

Synonyms

foretell, hint at, suggest

Examples of usage

  • The camera lingering on a particular object is a common way to foreshadow its importance later in the film.
  • The ominous music playing in the background was foreshadowing the arrival of the villain.

Word origin

The term 'foreshadowing' originated from the combination of 'fore-' meaning 'before' and 'shadow', indicating a hint or indication of something to come. It has been widely used in literature and film to create suspense and engage audiences by giving them subtle clues about future events in the narrative.

See also: foreshadow, overshadow, shadowed, shadowily, shadowing, shadowy.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,078, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.