Hinting at what will happen later in the story is called?

• A. Foreshadowing
• B. Inference
• C. Motif
• D. Tone

Answer: (A)

Foreshadowing is a narrative technique in which the author gives hints or clues about what will happen later in the story. These early hints can be direct or subtle and are meant to prepare readers for upcoming events, building anticipation and tension. For example, a character’s vague warning or a seemingly minor detail that later takes on greater significance signals what’s to come without stating it outright. This differs from inference, which is something readers do to guess future events based on clues rather than a deliberate cue from the author. A motif is a recurring symbol or idea that reinforces themes, not specifically about predicting the plot, and tone is the author’s attitude toward the subject, shaping mood rather than forecasting outcomes.