Forgiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe the act of letting go of resentment or anger towards someone who has wronged you. It is often personal and emotional.

• He sought forgiveness from his friend after their argument
• Forgiveness can be a powerful act of healing

Used both in legal contexts and everyday situations. In legal terms, it means forgiving a crime and cancelling the relevant penalty. In everyday use, it is often used to excuse minor mistakes or offenses.

• The president issued a pardon for the convicted felon
• Pardon my mistake, I didn’t see you standing there

Commonly used in a religious context to describe the act of being forgiven for one's sins by a priest. It implies a formal and official declaration of forgiveness.

• The priest gave her absolution after she confessed her sins
• Absolution is part of many religious ceremonies

Used to describe compassion or kindness shown to someone who is suffering or in a difficult situation. It can also imply not giving a harsh punishment that someone deserves.

• She showed mercy to the struggling family
• Mercy is a virtue that can change lives

Often used in legal or governmental contexts to describe leniency or mercy shown by someone in a position of authority, such as a judge or a president. It suggests a reduction in the severity of punishment.

• The governor granted clemency to the prisoner
• His appeal for clemency was successful

Best used in everyday situations where someone is excused from a mistake or wrongdoing. It is general and can be applied in personal, social, or even religious contexts.

• She asked for forgiveness after she realized she had hurt his feelings
• His forgiveness meant a lot to her

Used when someone in a position of power decides to be compassionate or lenient towards someone who has done something wrong. It is often used in legal, religious, or serious personal situations.

• The judge showed mercy and gave him a lighter sentence
• She begged for mercy when she realized the severity of her mistake

Typically used in a religious context, especially within Christianity, where a priest grants forgiveness for sins. It implies a formal release from guilt or punishment.

• The priest granted him absolution after he confessed his sins
• She felt a sense of peace after receiving absolution

Commonly used in legal or formal contexts when an authority figure officially forgives someone for a crime or wrongdoing, often leading to the cancellation of punishment.

• The governor granted him a pardon, allowing him to return home
• He sought a pardon for his earlier misdeeds

Often used in medical or formal contexts to refer to the reduction or cancellation of a debt, charge, or punishment. In a medical context, it can refer to the reduction or disappearance of symptoms.

• He was relieved when the doctor announced his cancer was in remission
• The remission of his debt brought a sense of relief

Used when someone stops feeling anger or resentment towards another person for an offense, flaw, or mistake.

• She asked for his forgiveness after breaking his favorite vase
• True forgiveness is difficult but liberating

Used when restoring harmonious relations between formerly arguing or conflicting parties is the goal.

• The two nations worked towards reconciliation after years of conflict
• After their argument, their reconciliation was a relief to everyone

Used when someone shows deep empathy and care for the suffering or misfortunes of others.

• He showed great compassion for the victims of the disaster
• Compassion is a key quality of a good leader

Used when someone shows empathy and is able to comprehend the feelings and viewpoints of others.

• Her understanding nature made her a favorite among friends
• He showed understanding about her need to leave early

Used when someone comes to terms with a situation or the actions of others, often implying tolerance and endurance.

• She showed acceptance of her new environment
• His acceptance of their differences strengthened their relationship