forgiveness

[fer-giv-nis] / fərˈgɪv nɪs /

NOUN

pardon; end of blame

Synonyms

STRONGEST

absolution amnesty clemency compassion dispensation grace mercy remission reprieve vindication

STRONG

acquittal charity condonation exculpation exoneration extenuation immunity impunity indemnity justification lenience lenity palliation purgation quarter quittance remittal respite

WEAK

overlooking

Antonyms

STRONGEST

blame cruelty meanness mercilessness

WEAK

accusation censure charge punishment sentence

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.

It also was a place with "no sword, no drone, no vengeance, no trivialisation of evil, no unjust profit, but only dignity, understanding and forgiveness."

From Barron's • Apr. 11, 2026

"If I wasn't before, I have become a person of forgiveness and hope in all aspects of my life, including work," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

In a statement issued late Monday, Melvin Benn, managing director of Festival Republic which helps promote the event, urged West's critics to show him "some forgiveness".

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

And then—maybe—an acknowledgment that forgiveness is a virtue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Sometimes he begs for forgiveness, sometimes he doesn’t.

From "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Erika L. Sánchez

Vocabulary lists containing forgiveness

Ceremony

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Shiloh

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for April 22–April 28, 2023

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!