prefigurative (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Adjective

Phonetic Transcription

/ˌpriːˈfɪɡərətɪv/

Meaning and Usage

The term "prefigurative" refers to something that foreshadows or anticipates future events or trends. In various contexts, it can describe behaviors, ideas, or social phenomena that serve as a prototype or model for what will come next.

It is relatively less common in everyday conversation but may appear more frequently in academic or specialized discussions, particularly in sociology, political science, and philosophy.

Example Sentences

1. The artist's work is often seen as prefigurative, hinting at movements that would gain prominence in the future.

2. Работа этого художника часто рассматривается как предвосхищающая, намекая на движения, которые приобретут популярность в будущем.

3. The youth movements of the 1960s are sometimes described as prefigurative, laying the groundwork for today's activism.

4. Молодежные движения 1960-х годов иногда описываются как предвосхищающие, прокладывая путь для современного активизма.

5. In literature, prefigurative themes can serve to create suspense and anticipation for the reader.

6. В литературе предвосхищающие темы могут способствовать созданию напряжения и ожидания у читателя.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "prefigurative" itself is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions, it can be related to several phrases that describe anticipation or foreshadowing:

1. The writing on the wall - This phrase indicates that something is about to happen, usually something negative.

2. Признаки беды были очевидны, это было «написано на стене». (The signs of trouble were clear, it was "the writing on the wall.")

3. A sign of the times - Referring to something that reflects the current mood or trend.

4. Его поведение было ярким «знаком времени», предвосхищая изменения в обществе. (His behavior was a clear "sign of the times," foreshadowing changes in society.)

5. To see the writing on the wall - To recognize potential danger or impending doom.

6. Она увидела «написанное на стене» и решила подготовиться к сложным временам. (She saw the "writing on the wall" and decided to prepare for tough times.)

Etymology

The word "prefigurative" is formed by combining the prefix "pre-" meaning "before" and "figurative," which pertains to forming or representing. The concept implies the idea of forming an image or representation before its actual occurrence or realization.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Anticipatory - Foreshadowing - Forecasting

Antonyms: - Retrospective - Conclusive - Definitive