foreground
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfɔːɡraʊnd/
KK: /ˈfɔrɡraʊnd/
noun
Definition
The part of a scene or image that is closest to the viewer, often containing the main subject or focus.
Example
In the painting, the flowers in the foreground draw the viewer's attention immediately.
Conversation
I really love how the artist made the foreground so vibrant in this painting.
Yeah, it really draws your attention right away!
It makes the whole scene feel more alive, doesn’t it?
Absolutely! The foreground adds so much depth to the artwork.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
forefront
vicinity
proximity
Antonyms
background
distance
remoteness
transitive verb
Definition
To make something more noticeable or important in a particular context or situation.
Example
The artist decided to foreground the main character in her painting to draw the viewer's attention.
Tense Forms
Past: foregrounded
Past Participle: foregrounded
Conversation
I just read an article that really foregrounds the importance of mental health.
Oh really? That sounds interesting!
Yeah, it highlights how crucial it is to talk about our feelings more openly.
Root Explanation
Foreground → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before or in front) and "ground" (from Old English "grund", meaning bottom or surface). The word "foreground" refers to the part of a scene that is nearest to the viewer, literally meaning the ground that is in front.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'in front' ('fore-') of you, like the ground you stand on ('ground'). This helps you remember that 'foreground' refers to the part of a scene closest to you.
Visually Confused Words
overground
fairground