Premention

Premention refers to the act of mentioning something beforehand or in advance. It is a common linguistic and communicative phenomenon that serves various purposes. In conversation, premention can be used to set expectations, introduce a topic that might be sensitive or complex, or to prepare the listener for information that will follow. For example, someone might say, "Before I tell you the news, I want you to know that it might be upsetting," prementioning the potential emotional impact of the upcoming information.

This anticipatory act can also be employed in writing to guide the reader's comprehension. An author might preface a chapter with a brief overview of its contents or a warning about its subject matter. This helps the reader to approach the material with the appropriate mindset and context. The term "premention" can also be applied more broadly to any instance where something is brought up or alluded to prior to its full discussion or occurrence. It's a way of creating a bridge between what has already been communicated and what is about to be. The effectiveness of premention often lies in its ability to reduce surprise, enhance clarity, and facilitate smoother communication by establishing a shared understanding or awareness of what is to come.