Forgetting: meaning, definitions and examples

Psychology

• Forgetting can actually be a good thing, helping our brains remove unneeded information and make space for new memories.
• Emotions play a big role in what we forget; we are more likely to remember things that made us feel strong emotions.
• The 'forgetting curve' shows that we tend to forget information over time, especially if we don’t use it often.

Etymology

• The word derives from Old English 'forgietan,' which combines 'for-' (away) and 'getan' (to get), meaning to 'get away from' something in memory.
• The concept of forgetting has been discussed since ancient times, with philosophers like Plato debating its implications on knowledge and learning.
• In languages like French ('oublier') and Spanish ('olvidar'), the roots of the word still bear traces of this idea of letting go or moving away from memory.

Literature

• Forgetting is a common theme in storytelling, often illustrating loss, change, or the passage of time, such as in 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
• In Shakespeare's plays, characters often forget their vows and promises, leading to conflicts and transformations.
• Many modern novels explore memory and forgetting as a central motif, examining how past experiences shape identity and relationships.

Neurology

• The brain has various processes for forgetting, one of the key mechanisms is called 'interference,' where new information conflicts with old.
• Hippocampus is crucial for memory formation, but it also plays a role in forgetting memories that are no longer relevant.
• Studies show that sleep plays a vital role in forgetting by helping our brains consolidate important memories while discarding unneeded ones.

Pop Culture

• Movies like 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' explore the desire to forget painful memories, showcasing the tension between wanting to remember and wanting to forget.
• In the song 'Forget You' by CeeLo Green, the theme of forgetting a painful breakup resonates with many listeners.
• Forgetfulness often appears in comedic scenarios in TV shows, where characters hilariously misplace their keys or forget important dates.

Position #9,581 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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• 9581 forgetting
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