Abstract: This paper reviews the previous and current research on foreland basins，including the concept，modes of tectonics-sedimentation，types，characteristics，and hydrocarbon bearing features．At the same time，the features and hydrocarbon potential of the rejuvenated foreland basins around intracontinental orogens in Mid-West China are discussed．Conclusions are as follows：① The rejuvenated foreland basins，juxtaposing with peripheral foreland basin and retro-arc foreland basins，should be considered as a main type of foreland basins；② The foreland basins，on the basis of their geodynamic environments，Can be subdivided into three fundamental types：the peripheral foreland basins ，retro-arc foreland basins and rejuvenated foreland basins．The former two types are the representative foreland basins, and the latter one is a rather unique type around introcontinental orogens in the Mid-West of China．③ Due to different regional background and evolutional processes of three types of foreland basins，individual styles of oil and gas system are developed inthese foreland basins