Forge: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about creating or forming something with great effort, often involving heat and pressure. Commonly associated with blacksmithing or the creation of something strong and durable.

• He worked tirelessly to forge a strong relationship with his colleagues.
• The blacksmith forged a beautiful sword from steel.

Applies when giving form to something, making or arranging parts into a particular structure. Can be used in both physical and abstract contexts.

• She shaped the dough into a loaf of bread.
• His experiences shaped his worldview.

Used when forming something into a particular shape without necessarily adding detail or texture. Often involves a medium that can be shaped or formed into a desired structure.

• The artist molded the clay into a vase.
• Parents play a crucial role in molding their children's characters.

Appropriate for describing the creation of something skillfully by hand, often related to artistic or intricate work. It emphasizes the skill and art involved in the creation process.

• She crafted a beautiful necklace from silver and gemstones.
• The artisan carefully crafted a wooden sculpture.

Used to describe forming or making something, often with effort over time, or creating false documents/money. It can also mean to shape metal. It carries connotations of effort, strength, and sometimes deceit.

• The blacksmith forged a sword from the raw iron.
• They forged a strong friendship after years of working together.
• He was arrested for forging passports.

Refers to bringing something into existence that did not exist before, often related to artistic or inventive endeavors.

• She loves to create beautiful paintings.
• The team worked together to create a new software application.

Emphasizes the process of growth or enhancement over time, often used in contexts of personal growth, skills, nations, or technology.

• They plan to develop a new residential area in the city.
• He took classes to develop his coding skills.

Generally means to make or manufacture something, usually in large quantities; also used for creative works.

• The factory produces thousands of cars each month.
• She's known for producing award-winning films.

Often used to describe the act of illegally creating a false document, signature, or artwork with the intent to deceive.

• He was arrested for attempting to forge a banknote.
• It's illegal to forge someone's signature on a contract.

Typically refers to the illegal production of fake money, products, or documents that are intended to look authentic. It often has a negative connotation.

• The police seized a large amount of counterfeit currency.
• She was caught with counterfeit designer handbags.

A general term used to describe anything that is not genuine or authentic. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• That watch is definitely fake, it isn't a real Rolex.
• She gave a fake smile even though she was upset.

Used to describe something that is made to look like something else, often with the intent to provide a cheaper substitute, but not necessarily illegal or with the intent to deceive.

• This necklace is an imitation of the famous diamond necklace, but it's made of glass.
• Imitation leather is often used for furniture.