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Forgo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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forgo

[fɔrˈɡoʊ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in decision making

To decide not to do or have something, especially something enjoyable that you think might be bad for you.

Synonyms

abstain, renounce, waive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forgo

Use when you decide not to do or have something you usually enjoy or that is considered beneficial.

  • She decided to forgo dessert to stick to her diet.
  • I will forgo my annual bonus this year to help the company save costs.
renounce

Use when you formally declare your decision to give up something, often a right, position, or belief.

  • The prince renounced his claim to the throne.
  • She renounced her citizenship to become a citizen of another country.
abstain

Use in situations where you deliberately choose not to participate in something, especially related to votes or substances like alcohol.

  • He decided to abstain from voting in the election.
  • During the month of January, many people abstain from drinking alcohol.
waive

Use when you decide to give up a legal right or claim.

  • The company agreed to waive the fee for early termination of the contract.
  • He signed a form to waive his right to sue the organization.

Examples of usage

  • I forwent the dessert in order to stick to my diet.
  • She forwent the opportunity to travel in order to save money.
Context #2 | Verb

in favor of something else

To give up or do without something.

Synonyms

cede, relinquish, sacrifice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forgo

Use when choosing to go without something or to let go of a desire voluntarily. This word is often used in personal decisions or self-denial.

  • She decided to forgo dessert to maintain her diet
  • They had to forgo some luxuries to save money
sacrifice

Appropriate in situations involving giving up something valuable for the sake of something or someone else. It often carries a sense of loss for a greater good.

  • Parents often sacrifice their personal time for their children
  • He sacrificed his own ambitions to support his family
relinquish

Used when giving up something reluctantly or with a sense of obligation. It conveys a sense of letting go under pressure or circumstances.

  • She had to relinquish her role as team leader due to health issues
  • He reluctantly relinquished control of the project
cede

This word is used in situations where one is giving up control or rights, often in a formal or legal context, such as transferring land or power.

  • The company had to cede part of its territory after the merger
  • The king decided to cede his throne to his son

Examples of usage

  • He forwent his own needs in order to help his friend.
  • They forwent their vacation to donate to charity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often forgo personal desires for greater goods, reflecting moral themes.
  • Shakespeare's plays frequently showcase characters who must forgo their ambitions for love or duty.
  • The notion of sacrifice, a key element in many stories, often revolves around the idea of forgoing something valuable.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people might feel more satisfaction from forgoing short-term pleasures for long-term rewards.
  • The ability to forgo immediate gratification is linked to self-control and discipline in psychology.
  • Individuals who can forgo temptations often experience greater success in achieving their goals.

Cultural Insight

  • In some cultures, forgoing certain luxuries is viewed as a sign of maturity and wisdom.
  • Festivals around the world celebrate the idea of letting go, demonstrating cultural values in various communities.
  • Many religions advocate forgoing material possessions in favor of spiritual growth, promoting simplicity.

Pop Culture

  • In popular media, characters often forgo their dreams for friends or family, portraying deep emotional connections.
  • Reality TV often highlights contestants who forgo personal comforts for competition, showcasing sacrifice.
  • Songs frequently explore themes of forgoing love or success, resonating with audiences through relatable experiences.

Origin of 'forgo'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'forgan', meaning to 'give up' or 'do without'.
  • In its journey through languages, it evolved through Middle English before settling into modern use in the 14th century.
  • It has been part of the English language for centuries, illustrating how choices were valued over time.

The word 'forgo' originated from the Old English word 'forgān', which meant 'to pass by, neglect, or let go'. Over time, the meaning evolved to signify the act of giving up or abstaining from something. The word has been in use for centuries and continues to be a common term in modern English.

See also: forego, go, goad, gofer, going, gone, goon, ongoing, outgoing, undergo.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,733, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.