What Does Foreshadowing Mean?

Foreshadowing is a literary device in which a writer gives an advance hint of what is to come later in the story. Foreshadowing often appears at the beginning of a story, or a chapter, and it helps the reader develop expectations about the upcoming events. A writer may implement foreshadowing in many different ways.

What is an example of a foreshadowing?

A character's thoughts can foreshadow. For example, “I told myself this is the end of my trouble, but I didn't believe myself.” Narration can foreshadow by telling you something is going to happen. Details are often left out, but the suspense is created to keep readers interested.

What does foreshadowing mean in simple terms?

: an indication of what is to come If the history of the world were a novel, the events so strikingly chronicled in the photographs in this book … would seem a foreshadowing of the recent events …—

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Consumer Tech & Gadget Reviewer

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.