foreshadowing
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfɔːrʃædoʊɪŋ/
KK: /ˈfɔːrʃædoʊɪŋ/
noun
Definition
A technique used in writing where hints or clues are given about what will happen later in the story.
Example
The author used foreshadowing to hint at the tragic ending of the novel.
Conversation
Have you noticed the foreshadowing in that new book we’re reading?
Yeah, it really makes you think about what’s coming next.
I love how subtle it is; it keeps me guessing.
Exactly! It adds so much depth to the story.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
omen
hint
sign
Antonyms
revelation
surprise
ignorance
verb
Definition
To indicate or suggest something that will happen in the future, often in a subtle way.
Example
The dark clouds foreshadowed a storm coming our way.
Tense Forms
Past: foreshadowed
Past Participle: foreshadowed
Conversation
Did you notice the way the author is foreshadowing the main character's downfall?
Yeah, I thought that was really clever!
It makes the story so much more interesting when they do that.
Root Explanation
Foreshadowing → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "shadow" (from Old English "sceadu", meaning shade or shadow) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "foreshadowing" means the act of indicating or suggesting something that will happen in the future, often by providing hints or clues.
Memory Tip
Think of something that casts a 'shadow' ('shadow') before it happens ('fore-') — that's why foreshadowing means hinting at future events.
Visually Confused Words
overshadowing
shadowing