Prefigure Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prefigure

[ˈpriːfɪɡjər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in art or literature

Prefigure means to represent or prefigure a future event before it happens. It can also mean to foreshadow or anticipate something.

Synonyms

anticipate, foreshadow, foretell, predict.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
prefigure	Used to describe a situation or event that seems to indicate or suggest a future occurrence. Common in literary or historical discussions. The ancient myths prefigure the rise and fall of empires The character’s early actions prefigure his eventual downfall
foreshadow	Often used in literature to hint at future events in a story. It suggests subtle or indirect clues about what will happen. The dark clouds foreshadowed the coming storm The eerie music in the scene foreshadowed the tragic events to come
anticipate	Used when talking about expecting or looking forward to something that is going to happen. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts. She could anticipate his next move in the game He eagerly anticipated the arrival of his new book
predict	Used in a general sense to describe making an educated guess about the future based on current information or trends. Common in scientific and everyday conversations. Scientists predict that the climate will continue to change I can predict that she will be late, based on her past behavior
foretell	Used when predicting or prophesying future events, often in a mystical or supernatural context. The oracle foretold the hero’s destiny The witch claimed to foretell the future

Examples of usage

The painting prefigures the artist's later works.
Her dream prefigured the tragic events that were about to unfold.
The dark clouds prefigure a storm approaching.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

figuratively

To prefigure can also mean to serve as a warning or indication of something to come.

Synonyms

forewarn, herald, indicate, signal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
prefigure	Used when something is an early indication or version of something that will happen in the future. Often found in more formal or literary contexts. The early experiments prefigure the later successes of the project. His early writings prefigure his later and more famous work.
indicate	Commonly used in everyday language to point out, show, or indicate something. It's neutral and versatile in meaning. The data indicate a significant increase in sales. The signs indicate that repairs are underway.
forewarn	Appropriate when you want to give someone advanced notice about a possible danger or problem. Often carries a sense of caution. We were forewarned about the upcoming storm. He tried to forewarn his friend about the risky investment.
signal	Used when something clearly shows a particular action, quality, or intention, often used in both technical and everyday settings. The green light signals it's safe to go. His yawn signaled that he was tired.
herald	Best used to announce or signal the imminent arrival of something significant or important. Often suggests something big and noteworthy. The new policy was heralded as a major reform. The dawn heralded the beginning of a new era.

Examples of usage

The early signs prefigured the economic downturn.
His erratic behavior prefigures a more serious issue.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Authors often use this technique to create suspense by hinting at future plot twists.
Famous works, like Shakespeare's plays, contain characters or events that seem to 'prefigure' later developments, leading readers to make connections.
Classic myths frequently utilize this device to set the stage for inevitable human destinies or tragic outcomes.

Psychology

Humans are naturally inclined to predict future events based on past experiences, which reflects cognitive processes of learning and adaptation.
This mental process can enhance decision-making, allowing people to evaluate risks before taking action.
The ability to prefigure or anticipate future events is a sign of higher cognitive functioning in humans.

Art

Visual artists often use symbolic imagery to prefigure themes that will develop throughout a piece.
In cinematic storytelling, directors may employ techniques like foreshadowing to create deeper meanings, enriching the viewer’s experience.
Certain styles of painting may depict elements that suggest an unfolding narrative, urging viewers to guess the plot if it were a story.

Pop Culture

Television shows often feature cliffhangers intended to prefigure future episodes, keeping viewers engaged.
In comic books, characters may have story arcs that are carefully crafted to hint at transformations or alliances that are yet to be revealed.
Movie trailers frequently use editing to prefigure thrilling moments that excite the audience about what lies ahead.

Origin of 'prefigure'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Latin 'praefigurare', where 'prae' means 'before' and 'figurare' means 'to shape or form'.
It was first recorded in English in the late 16th century, reflecting a period of growing interest in predictive literature.
It has roots in both literature and art, indicating the practice of foreshadowing a future event.

The word 'prefigure' originated from the Latin word 'praefigurare', which means 'to represent beforehand'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. The concept of prefiguring future events or outcomes has been a common theme in art, literature, and religion throughout history, often seen as a way to hint at what is to come.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,688 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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34685 mimed
34686 penalise
34687 personifying
34688 prefigure
34689 convolute
34690 valance
34691 solicitously
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