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Foreshorten - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Foreshorten means to shorten or reduce something in length, scale, or time. In art, it refers to depicting an object at an angle to create the illusion of depth or perspective.

foreshorten

/fɔrˈʃɔrtn/ /fɔːˈʃɔːtn/

Definition:

To shorten or reduce in length, often to create a visual perspective effect.

Synonyms:

abbreviate, truncate, compress, condense

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

lengthen, extend, elongate

Common Collocations:

foreshortened view, foreshorten the figure, foreshorten the perspective

Derivatives:

foreshortened, foreshortening

Usage Tips:

Use "foreshorten" when describing how objects appear shorter due to perspective in art or writing concisely.

Common Phrases:

foreshorten the distance, foreshortened effect, foreshorten the narrative

Etymology:

From Middle English "forshorten," combining "for-" (intensive) + "shorten."

Examples:

  • 1. The artist used lines to foreshorten the arm in the drawing.
  • 2. Foreshortening helps create depth in paintings and sketches.
  • 3. She tried to foreshorten her speech to fit the time limit.
  • 4. The camera angle made his legs appear foreshortened.
  • 5. In comics, artists often foreshorten characters for dramatic effect.

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