Forgive

/fərˈɡɪv/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To stop feeling angry or resentful toward someone for an offense, flaw, or mistake.

She decided to forgive him for his thoughtless comments.

To cancel a debt or obligation.

The bank agreed to forgive part of the loan.

To cease to feel resentment against (an offender).

After a long discussion, he was able to forgive himself for the errors he made.

Middle English: from Old English forgyfan, meaning 'to give up, grant, allow'.

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.

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.

Let it slide

I decided to let it slide this time.

Chill out about it

You need to chill out about that mistake; it’s not a big deal.