Forgive: meaning, definitions and examples

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forgive

 

[ fərˈɡɪv ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

in relationships

Stop feeling angry or resentful towards (someone) for an offense, flaw, or mistake.

Synonyms

absolve, disregard, excuse, overlook, pardon

Examples of usage

  • I find it hard to forgive and forget
  • he asked me to forgive him for the things he said
Context #2 | Verb

in religion

Cease to feel resentment against (an offender).

Synonyms

absolve, excuse, exonerate, pardon, pity

Examples of usage

  • God, I forgive him
Context #3 | Noun

general

The action or process of forgiving or being forgiven.

Synonyms

absolution, clemency, pardon, remission

Examples of usage

  • she is quick to ask for forgiveness when she has overstepped the line

Translations

Translations of the word "forgive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perdoar

🇮🇳 माफ करना

🇩🇪 vergeben

🇮🇩 memaafkan

🇺🇦 пробачати

🇵🇱 wybaczać

🇯🇵 許す (ゆるす)

🇫🇷 pardonner

🇪🇸 perdonar

🇹🇷 affetmek

🇰🇷 용서하다

🇸🇦 يغفر

🇨🇿 odpustit

🇸🇰 odpustiť

🇨🇳 原谅 (yuán liàng)

🇸🇮 odpustiti

🇮🇸 fyrirgefa

🇰🇿 кешіру

🇬🇪 მიტევება

🇦🇿 bağışlamaq

🇲🇽 perdonar

Etymology

The word 'forgive' originated from the Old English word 'forgiefan', which meant to give, grant, or allow. The concept of forgiveness has been an important aspect of many religions and cultures throughout history. It is often seen as a way to release anger and resentment, and promote healing and reconciliation.

See also: gave, give, giveaway, given, giver, giving, misgiving.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,273 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.