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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.

“And my kids, they wouldn’t want that. They’re sweet kids. I feel like, if kids their age can forgive and offer him a peace offering, grown adults and other fans can, too.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

“They may be far less willing to forgive vague spending.”

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

"If something happened to him, I would never forgive myself," says Raegan, who now lives in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

"I only hope that one day they hold it in their hearts to forgive me," she added.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

“I’ve always been afraid of snakes. Please forgive my rudeness!”

From "A Girl Named Disaster" by Nancy Farmer

Vocabulary lists containing forgive

Excerpt from "Kira-Kira"

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