Forgive

Definition

Forgive is a verb that means to stop feeling anger or resentment toward someone for a mistake, offense, or wrongdoing. It can also refer to the act of absolving someone from a debt or obligation.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fərˈɡɪv/
• Respelling: fur-GIV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fəˈɡɪv/
• Respelling: fuh-GIV

Etymology

The word "forgive" originates from the Old English "forgiefan," meaning "to give up, grant, or pardon." It is derived from the Proto-Germanic "*forgifan*" and Proto-Indo-European "*per-*," meaning "to pass over." Over time, it developed its modern sense of absolution and letting go of grievances.

Derivatives

• Forgiveness (noun)
• Forgivable (adjective)
• Unforgivable (adjective)
• Forgiver (noun)
• Forgiving (adjective)

Synonyms

• Pardon
• Absolve
• Excuse

Antonyms

• Condemn
• Blame
• Resent

Usage

The term "forgive" is used in contexts involving reconciliation, understanding, and emotional healing. For example, "She chose to forgive him for his mistake," or "The debt was forgiven due to financial hardship."

Related Terms

• Pardon: The act of forgiving or excusing someone for a fault or offense.
• Reconciliation: The restoration of friendly relations after a dispute.
• Compassion: A sympathetic awareness of others' suffering combined with a desire to alleviate it.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To stop feeling anger or resentment toward someone for an offense or mistake: Refers to the act of letting go of negative emotions.
  • Example: "She forgave her friend for the harsh words."
• To absolve someone from a debt, penalty, or obligation: Indicates the act of canceling a debt or legal penalty.
  • Example: "The bank forgave a portion of the loan."