foregone
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /fɔːrˈɡoʊn/
KK: /fɔrˈɡoʊn/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that has already happened or been decided in the past.
Example
The outcome of the match was a foregone conclusion after the first half.
Conversation
Did you hear about the event they planned for this weekend?
Yeah, I think the schedule was a bit foregone since they announced it last month.
I guess they wanted to make sure everyone had time to prepare.
True, it's always good to have things set in stone ahead of time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
previous
prior
antecedent
Antonyms
subsequent
following
later
verb
Definition
To give up or do without something, especially something that is desired or expected.
Example
She decided to forego dessert to maintain her diet.
Tense Forms
Past: forewent
Past Participle: foregone
Conversation
I can't believe I foregone my chance to travel last summer.
Yeah, that was a missed opportunity for sure.
I really thought I could go, but life got in the way.
Root Explanation
Foregone → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "gone" (from Old English "gan", meaning to go). The word "foregone" refers to something that has gone before or is predetermined.
Memory Tip
Think of something that has 'gone' ('gan') 'before' ('fore-') — that's why foregone means something that is predetermined or already decided.
Visually Confused Words
unforegone
unforgone
formene
forgoer
fordone