Chekhov's gun
Say it: CHEK-ofs gun /ˌtʃɛkɒfs ˈɡʌn/ · noun phrase
What “Chekhov's gun” means
A story detail introduced early should matter later.
More precisely: The principle that every detail introduced in a story should matter later.
Example: “The mysterious key in episode one is pure Chekhov's gun.”
When to use it
When discussing storytelling, especially whether a conspicuous early detail earns its place by becoming important later.
Similar words
setup and payoff, narrative promise
Where it comes from
From Anton Chekhov's advice that a gun shown early must eventually be fired.
Quick check
A character pockets a tiny whistle early in the story, then uses it to summon rescuers. This illustrates…
Chekhov's gun or a red herring?
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Chekhov's gun
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