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Prefiguration - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Prefiguration is the act of representing or suggesting something in advance, often as a foreshadowing or early indication of what will come later. It is commonly used in literature, art, and theology.

prefiguration

/ˌpriːfɪɡjəˈreɪʃən/ /ˌpriːfɪɡəˈreɪʃən/

Definition:

An early indication or foreshadowing of something to come.

Synonyms:

foreshadowing, anticipation, harbinger, precursor

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

aftereffect, result

Common Collocations:

prefiguration of events, symbolic prefiguration, biblical prefiguration

Derivatives:

prefigure, prefigurative, prefiguring

Usage Tips:

Use "prefiguration" to describe an early sign or model of a future event or concept.

Common Phrases:

"a prefiguration of things to come, " "biblical prefiguration, " "symbolic prefiguration"

Etymology:

From Latin *praefigurare*, meaning "to represent beforehand."

Examples:

  • 1. The artist's sketch was a prefiguration of her final masterpiece.
  • 2. His early struggles were a prefiguration of his later success.
  • 3. The story contains a clear prefiguration of the hero's fate.
  • 4. Ancient myths often serve as prefigurations of modern themes.

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