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flashback

noun

/ˈflæʃˌbæk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of flashback

A narrative device used in literature, film, or other storytelling mediums to present events or scenes from the past.
"The novel cleverly employed flashbacks to reveal the secrets of the protagonist's past."

Detailed meaning of flashback

It involves a sudden shift in the narrative timeline, transporting the audience or readers back to an earlier time, often before the current events of the story. Flashbacks provide additional context, background information, or insights into the characters' motivations, past experiences, or significant events that have shaped the story. They allow the audience to witness crucial moments, understand the characters' development, or unravel mysteries that are relevant to the present narrative. Flashbacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as a character's memory, a visual cue, or a dialogue exchange. They add depth, complexity, and an element of surprise to the storytelling, enabling a deeper understanding of the characters and their journeys.

Example sentences containing flashback

1. The protagonist experienced a vivid flashback to their childhood, recalling a traumatic event.
2. Through a series of flashbacks, the audience pieced together the character's troubled past.
3. The film utilized flashbacks to provide insight into the protagonist's motivations.
4. In a sudden flashback, she remembered the exact moment they first met.
5. The haunting flashback revealed the truth behind the mysterious disappearance.
6. The character's present-day dilemma triggered a series of vivid flashbacks.

History and etymology of flashback

The noun 'flashback' is a compound word formed by combining 'flash' and 'back.' The term 'flash' in this context signifies a sudden, brief, and vivid occurrence, while 'back' indicates a return to a previous point in time. 'Flashback' as a narrative device was first coined in the early 20th century to describe a technique used in literature and later in film and other storytelling mediums to present events or scenes from the past within the context of the narrative. It allows audiences to gain insight into a character's history, motivations, or the unfolding of a story. The etymology of 'flashback' effectively captures the essence of this storytelling device, which often involves a sudden and vivid return to events or moments from the past within the narrative timeline.

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Further usage examples of flashback

1. Through a poignant flashback, the audience witnessed the character's journey of self-discovery.
2. The writer expertly wove flashbacks into the narrative, adding layers of depth and emotion.
3. A bittersweet flashback transported her back to a cherished memory with her late grandmother.
4. The flashback offered crucial clues that helped the detective unravel the mystery.
5. The use of flashbacks created a compelling narrative structure, intertwining past and present.
6. The movie's flashback revealed the character's troubled childhood.
7. In the novel, a poignant flashback explained the protagonist's motivation.
8. Flashbacks provided insight into the historical events of the story.
9. The director used a clever flashback to unravel the mystery.
10. The story's flashback depicted a pivotal moment in the character's life.
11. Flashbacks were skillfully woven throughout the narrative.
12. The book's flashback added depth to the protagonist's backstory.
13. The film's flashback sequence transported viewers to another era.
14. A sudden flashback revealed the hidden truth about the villain.
15. Flashbacks allowed the audience to understand the character's trauma.
16. The series used flashbacks to explore the characters' relationships.
17. A haunting flashback haunted the protagonist throughout the story.
18. Flashbacks offered glimpses of the protagonist's past adventures.
19. The writer employed a dreamy flashback to evoke nostalgia.
20. Flashbacks wove a tapestry of memories in the storyline.
21. The show's flashback scenes were emotionally charged.
22. The novel's flashback added complexity to the plot.
23. A vivid flashback illuminated the character's motivations.
24. Flashbacks unveiled the secrets of the haunted mansion.
25. The film's final flashback tied up loose ends in the plot.