forego
1 Americanverb (used with or without object)
verb (used with object)
verb
verb
Other Word Forms
- foregoer noun
Etymology
Origin of forego
before 900; Middle English forgon, forgan, Old English foregān. See fore-, go 1
Explanation
If you forego something, you choose to give it up. If you forego dessert after dinner, you are skipping dessert. The verb forego (also spelled forgo) literally means “to go by.” In common usage it means “to abstain” or “do without.” You might forego smoking cigarettes as a New Year’s resolution. Forego can also mean “to precede,” or “go before.” This verb is often seen in its past participle form, foregone, in the phrase “foregone conclusion,” meaning a predetermined conclusion.
Vocabulary lists containing forego
The Constitution of the United States
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Vocabulary from the Constitution of the United States
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Declaration and Resolves of the First Continental Congress
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Wall Street Journal reported External link over the weekend that SpaceX would forego a Mars mission in 2026, focusing on the moon instead.
From Barron's • Feb. 9, 2026
In periods of renewed market volatility, investors who have not adequately diversified or hedged their portfolios may have to forego any immediate plans to retire.
From MarketWatch • Jan. 20, 2026
It’s remarkable how much future benefit people will forego for a little instant gratification.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 26, 2025
Medical exemptions are also easier to police, since states can require licensed doctors to explain why each child has a legitimate need to forego vaccination.
From Slate • Dec. 9, 2025
Happily Van Helsing has not summoned me, so I need not forego my sleep; to-night I could not well do without it.
From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
