forgive
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /fərˈɡɪv/
KK: /fərˈgɪv/
intransitive verb
Definition
To stop feeling angry or resentful towards someone for an offense, mistake, or wrongdoing.
Example
She decided to forgive him for his mistake.
Tense Forms
Past: forgave
Past Participle: forgiven
Conversation
I really hope she can forgive me for what I said.
I'm sure she will, given how close you two are.
Yeah, I just need to give her some time to forgive me.
That makes sense; sometimes people need space to heal.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pardon
excuse
absolve
Antonyms
blame
condemn
resent
transitive verb
Definition
To stop feeling angry or resentful towards someone for something they have done wrong.
Example
She decided to forgive him for his mistake.
Tense Forms
Past: forgave
Past Participle: forgiven
Conversation
I can't believe how upset I was after our argument yesterday.
I know, it was pretty intense. Do you think we can forgive each other?
Yeah, I really want to move past it and not hold any grudges.
Root Explanation
Forgive is formed from "for-" (meaning away or completely) and "giefan" (from Old English, meaning to give). The word means to completely give away resentment or anger towards someone who has wronged you.
Memory Tip
Think of completely 'giving away' ('giefan') your anger or resentment ('for-') when you forgive someone.
Visually Confused Words
reforgive
ogive
unforgiver
unforgiven
preforgive
forelive