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View synonyms for forgive

forgive

[fer-giv]

verb (used with object)

forgave, forgiven, forgiving. 
  1. to grant pardon for or remission of (an offense, debt, etc.); absolve.

  2. to give up all claim on account of; remit (a debt, obligation, etc.).

  3. to grant pardon to (a person).

    Synonyms: acquit, absolve
  4. to cease to feel resentment against.

    to forgive one's enemies.

  5. to cancel an indebtedness or liability of.

    to forgive the interest owed on a loan.



verb (used without object)

forgave, forgiven, forgiving. 
  1. to pardon an offense or an offender.

forgive

/ fəˈɡɪv /

verb

  1. to cease to blame or hold resentment against (someone or something)

  2. to grant pardon for (a mistake, wrongdoing, etc)

  3. (tr) to free or pardon (someone) from penalty

  4. (tr) to free from the obligation of (a debt, payment, etc)

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • forgivable adjective
  • forgiver noun
  • half-forgiven adjective
  • preforgive verb (used with object)
  • unforgivable adjective
  • unforgivableness noun
  • unforgivably adverb
  • unforgiven adjective
  • forgivably adverb
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Word History and Origins

Origin of forgive1

First recorded before 900; for- + give; replacing Middle English foryiven, Old English forgiefan
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Word History and Origins

Origin of forgive1

Old English forgiefan ; see for- , give
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Synonym Study

See excuse.
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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.

She said it was "exciting to be a part" of it and that her American friends would "never forgive me if I didn't come down".

Read more on BBC

Wear something soft and forgiving until it’s time to change.

Read more on Salon

Analysts say Amazon’s reputation for reliable delivery and a forgiving return policy means it might be less daunting to buy high-price items on the company’s website than other marketplaces.

Joey is angry that Chandler has kissed his girlfriend and will only forgive him if Chandler spends Thanksgiving in a box.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Ella ultimately must decide whether she can forgive him for all the ways he wronged their family.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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forgingforgive and forget