Meaning & Definition of word "Forgive"
Forgive
/fərˈɡɪv/
verb:
- 1. To stop feeling angry or resentful toward someone for an offense, flaw, or mistake.
- Example: She decided to forgive him for his thoughtless comments.
- 2. To cancel a debt or obligation.
- Example: The bank agreed to forgive part of the loan.
- 3. To cease to feel resentment against (an offender).
- Example: After a long discussion, he was able to forgive himself for the errors he made.
Etymology
●Middle English: from Old English forgyfan, meaning 'to give up, grant, allow'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
forgive and forget:
To forgive someone and not hold onto the memory of the offense.
forgive yourself:
To stop blaming oneself for a mistake.
forgive the debt:
To cancel a financial obligation.
Related Words
pardon:
The act of forgiving or being forgiven.
repent:
To feel regret or remorse for something one has done.
absolution:
Formal release from guilt, obligation, or punishment.
Slang Meanings of forgive
Meaning: Let it slide
● Example Sentence: I decided to let it slide this time.
Meaning: Chill out about it
● Example Sentence: You need to chill out about that mistake; it’s not a big deal.