What term describes an author's use of hints or clues to suggest events that will occur later in the story?

The term that describes an author's use of hints or clues to suggest events that will occur later in the story is foreshadowing. This literary device is crucial for building anticipation and tension within a narrative, as it allows readers to pick up on subtle signals that indicate what might happen subsequently. Foreshadowing can often be found in the choice of language, imagery, or specific events that seem innocuous at first but gain significance as the plot unfolds.

In contrast, exposition refers to the introduction of background information necessary for understanding the narrative, such as character backgrounds and setting details. Imagery involves the use of descriptive language to create vivid pictures in the reader's mind, enhancing the sensory experience of the text. Symbolism entails using symbols to represent larger concepts or ideas beyond their literal meaning. Each of these terms serves a distinct function in storytelling, but foreshadowing specifically focuses on hinting at future events, making it the correct choice.