Word
foreshadowing
Phoneticsfore·shad·ow·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/fɔɹˈʃædoʊɪŋ/
UK/fɔːʃˈædəʊɪŋ/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. a hint or clue in a story that suggests something will happen later. It helps the reader prepare for a future event or problem.
n. the use of hints or clues in a narrative to suggest what will happen later. Often used to create suspense or to provide a thematic link between past and future events.
Examples
“The dark clouds in the first chapter are a form of foreshadowing.”
“The author uses subtle foreshadowing in the first chapter to prepare the reader for the protagonist's eventual downfall.”
“While some critics argue that the early mention of the storm is mere coincidence, others view it as a masterful example of foreshadowing that ties the entire narrative together.”
Examples
simple
“The dark clouds in the first chapter are a form of foreshadowing.”
contextual
“The author uses subtle foreshadowing in the first chapter to prepare the reader for the protagonist's eventual downfall.”
complex
“While some critics argue that the early mention of the storm is mere coincidence, others view it as a masterful example of foreshadowing that ties the entire narrative together.”
Real-World Examples
“Except, alongside her emotional growth, the silhouette of a new factory rises in the background – effectively portrayed by lighting designer Rajiv Pattani’s projection – foreshadowing the calamity to come.” “The knowledge of this incipient horror looms unavoidably large; the whole film now feels like foreshadowing.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/foreshadowing