Meaning & Definition of Forgiveness in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: The process of letting go of resentment or anger against someone for a perceived transgression.

  Example Sentence: Forgiveness is essential for moving on from past hurts.

• Definition: A conscious decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group.

  Example Sentence: She found peace through the forgiveness of her former adversaries.

• Definition: The act of being forgiving; granting pardon for an offense.

  Example Sentence: His forgiveness allowed their friendship to heal.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English from Old English forgyfan, meaning to give, grant.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• forgive and forget: An expression meaning to pardon someone and not hold any resentment towards them.
• forgive one's enemies: An expression emphasizing the importance of forgiving even those who have wronged you.

Translations

• Spanish: perdón

• French: pardon

• German: vergebung

• Russian: прощение

Related Words

• pardon: The action of forgiving or being forgiven.

• mercy: Compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.

• reconciliation: The restoration of friendly relations.

Slang Meanings of forgiveness

• Meaning: Let it slide

  Example Sentence: She decided to let it slide and forgive him.

• Meaning: To give a free pass

  Example Sentence: He gave her a free pass for her mistake.