English Reference
Noun

foreshadowing

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US /fɔɹˈʃædoʊɪŋ/ UK /fɔːʃˈædəʊɪŋ/ fore·shad·ow·ing Literature

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.


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.

The knowledge of this incipient horror looms unavoidably large; the whole film now feels like foreshadowing.

The Guardian· 17 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated