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Definitions

forgive

[fer-giv] / fərˈgɪv /
VERB
stop blame and grant pardon
Synonyms
STRONGEST
absolve condone excuse forget
STRONG
acquit amnesty clear commute efface exculpate exempt exonerate extenuate overlook palliate pocket purge release relent remit reprieve respite spring
WEAK
accept apology allow for bear no malice bear with bury the hatchet dismiss from mind kiss and make up laugh off let bygones be bygones let it go let off let off easy let pass let up on make allowance think no more of turn other cheek wink at wipe the slate clean
Antonyms
STRONGEST
condemn
STRONG
accuse blame hold increase keep maintain sentence
WEAK
censure charge punish

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Okrent portrays Sondheim as witty and endearing, but also poorly groomed, remote, caustic, quick to anger — and, mostly, quick to forgive.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

“Of course, they will never forgive me for lots of things.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Though Burton initially felt deep hatred and anger toward the man who killed his wife, by the time he was up for parole, Burton had brought himself to forgive.

From Slate • Mar. 6, 2026

"I've asked God to forgive me, which he has," he added.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

I don’t know how to talk to you right now, and I want you to forgive me.

From Each Little Bird That Sings by Deborah Wiles

Vocabulary lists containing forgive

Excerpt from "Kira-Kira"

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