Prefiguration meaning

Prefiguration is the foreshadowing or representation of a future event or idea.


Prefiguration definitions

Word backwards noitarugiferp
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division pre-fig-u-ra-tion
Plural The plural of the word "prefiguration" is "prefigurations."
Total letters 13
Vogais (5) e,i,u,a,o
Consonants (6) p,r,f,g,t,n

Prefiguration is a concept that is often used in literary, religious, and philosophical contexts to refer to events or characters that foreshadow or symbolically represent future events. It can also be seen as a form of prediction or prophecy, where certain elements in the present indicate what is to come in the future.

Understanding Prefiguration

Prefiguration is a literary device that allows authors to hint at things to come in their works. By introducing certain characters, themes, or events early on in a story, writers can create a sense of anticipation and build tension as readers try to piece together the clues and predict the outcome.

Religious and Philosophical Context

In religious and philosophical contexts, prefiguration often refers to events or figures in the past that are believed to anticipate or foreshadow future events, particularly in the context of religious beliefs or prophecies. For example, in Christianity, the Old Testament is often seen as prefiguring the New Testament, with characters and events in the former seen as symbolic of or pointing towards the latter.

Symbolism and Interpretation

Prefiguration relies heavily on symbolism and interpretation. It invites readers or audiences to delve into the deeper meanings behind certain elements in a work and to consider how they might relate to or predict future events. This can add layers of complexity and richness to a text, prompting readers to engage more deeply with the material.

Overall, prefiguration is a powerful tool that authors, religious thinkers, and philosophers use to create meaning, build suspense, and encourage deeper engagement with their works. By hinting at what is to come and inviting readers to interpret the clues, prefiguration adds depth and complexity to storytelling and philosophical discourse.


Prefiguration Examples

  1. The author's use of symbolism in the novel seemed to be a prefiguration of the main character's ultimate fate.
  2. The artist's early sketches acted as a prefiguration of the final masterpiece.
  3. The prophet's visions were seen as prefigurations of the events that would unfold in the future.
  4. The scientist's groundbreaking research was a prefiguration of future advancements in the field.
  5. The ancient ruins were seen as a prefiguration of the once great civilization that had thrived there.
  6. The teacher's lesson on foreshadowing served as a prefiguration of the plot twists in the novel.
  7. The early evidence collected by the detective was a prefiguration of the true culprit's identity.
  8. The discovery of fossilized remains was a prefiguration of the ancient life forms that once inhabited the area.
  9. The child's fascination with stars was a prefiguration of their future career as an astronomer.
  10. The weather patterns observed by the meteorologist were a prefiguration of the impending storm.


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  • Updated 18/06/2024 - 09:37:47