A character whose contrast throws the protagonist's traits into sharper relief.
A foil is defined by contrast: a character built to differ from another - usually the protagonist - so that each highlights what the other is. The cautious partner beside the reckless lead, the cynic beside the believer; placing them together makes both legible in a way neither is alone.
A foil need not be an antagonist, and the best ones share enough common ground that the difference reads as a choice rather than a coincidence. They often carry theme too, embodying the road not taken so the protagonist's path is measured against a living alternative.
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