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What Is Foreshadowing? (With Famous Examples)

spencer655
Apr 27
3 min read

Updated: Apr 28

Foreshadowing is a powerful tool used by writers to hint at what’s coming next. Teaching students to spot it can help them read more closely, understand plot development, and even predict story outcomes.

Let’s break down the definition of foreshadowing, look at examples, and answer common questions teachers and students often have.

What is the best definition of foreshadow?

Foreshadowing is a literary device where a writer gives hints or clues early in a story about what will happen later.

It builds suspense, prepares readers for major events, and often creates a sense of inevitability. Sometimes the hint is obvious, but more often it is subtle, appearing as a line of dialogue, a setting detail, or a small action that seems minor at first but becomes important later.

Simple definition:

Foreshadowing is when a story gives a clue about something that will happen later.

What is a foreshadowing example?

Here are a few easy-to-understand examples of foreshadowing:

In a story, a character says, “I have a bad feeling about this trip.” Later, something does go wrong.
In a movie, storm clouds gather in the background during a happy scene, hinting that trouble is ahead.
In a mystery novel, a character notices a strange locked door early on. Later, that door hides a major secret.
In a fairy tale, a warning from an old woman hints that ignoring advice will lead to danger.

Foreshadowing does not spoil the ending. Instead, it plants small seeds that grow into major plot points.

Is foreshadowing a warning?

Sometimes, but not always.

If the hint suggests that something bad will happen, then yes, it acts like a warning to the reader or audience.

If the hint simply points to a major event (whether positive or negative), it is more about preparation than warning.

For example:

A darkening sky might warn readers of a coming storm (negative foreshadowing).
A bright, golden sunrise might hint at a character’s new opportunity or success (positive foreshadowing).

While foreshadowing can feel like a warning, it is really about setting expectations for important upcoming events.

What does foreshadowing mean?

Foreshadowing means using small clues to suggest future events in a story.

It allows readers to:

Feel tension or excitement
Make predictions
Notice patterns
Stay engaged in the plot

Writers use foreshadowing to make stories more interesting and emotionally powerful. Without foreshadowing, major plot twists might feel random or confusing. With it, twists feel earned, like puzzle pieces snapping into place.

15 Examples of Foreshadowing in Popular Media

Here are 15 great examples of foreshadowing from books, movies, and TV shows that students may recognize:

Harry Potter: Early mentions of Harry’s scar hurting hint at Voldemort’s connection.
The Lion King: Scar says, “I’m surrounded by idiots,” hinting at his future betrayal.
Frozen: Elsa’s fear of her powers is introduced early, setting up the central conflict.
Romeo and Juliet: Romeo says he fears something bad will start at the Capulet party.
Star Wars: Luke Skywalker’s quick piloting skills foreshadow him flying an X-Wing successfully.
The Hunger Games: Katniss’s ability with a bow is shown early, crucial for her survival later.
Finding Nemo: Marlin’s overprotectiveness foreshadows the risks Nemo will take.
Of Mice and Men: Lennie’s accidental killing of small animals hints at tragic consequences.
Toy Story 2: Jessie’s story about abandonment hints at Woody’s later fear of being left behind.
Titanic: Characters comment repeatedly on how the ship is “unsinkable.”
The Great Gatsby: Gatsby’s car plays a role in foreshadowing the novel’s tragic ending.
The Wizard of Oz: Miss Gulch’s desire to take Toto hints at her later role as the Wicked Witch.
Beauty and the Beast: The warning about the enchanted rose shows time is running out.
Back to the Future: Marty’s interest in music early on hints at the pivotal dance scene.
The Odyssey: Prophecies about Odysseus’s difficult journey foreshadow every obstacle he faces.

Foreshadowing teaches readers and writers that stories are built carefully, and that small details often carry big meanings.

Whether you are analyzing a novel or helping students write their own stories, understanding foreshadowing opens the door to deeper, more thoughtful storytelling.

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