forgo

Or fore·go

[fawr-goh]

verb (used with object)

forwent, forgone, forgoing. 

1. to abstain or refrain from; do without.

   Synonyms: forsake, sacrifice, forbear

2. to give up, renounce, or resign.

3. Archaic.,  to neglect or overlook.

4. Archaic.,  to quit or leave.

5. Obsolete.,  to go or pass by.

forgo

/ fɔːˈɡəʊ /

verb

1. to give up or do without

2. archaic,  to leave

Other Word Forms

• forgoer noun
• unforgone adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of forgo¹

First recorded before 950; Middle English forgon, Old English forgān ; for-, go ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of forgo¹

Old English forgān ; see _for- , _go ¹

Example Sentences

With modern coaches placing increased emphasis on set-pieces and 'going long', forgoing a possession-based game in favour of a more direct brand of football, it is beginning to feel like we have been here before.

From BBC

Even if driving to the farm and buying everything directly were a way to verify food safety — and it’s not — it’s ridiculous to expect modern people to forgo the basic convenience of the grocery store.

From Salon

But now, more than 25 years later, that partnership has crumbled, leaving an ice cream brand that refuses to forgo its values — and be silenced.

From Salon

“Let them cut executive salaries and forgo dividends, rather than pass this on unilaterally to every customer.”

From Los Angeles Times

He agreed with Mr Field that the younger generation seemed to forgo visiting butchers' shops, preferring the convenience of the supermarket.

From BBC

Related Words

• abandon 
• abdicate 
• abstain 
• eschew 
• forsake 
• pass on 
• pass up 
• quit 
• refrain 
• relinquish 
• renounce 
• resist 
• swear off 
• waive