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.

Forgive me, but I have seen and heard prophecies emanating from what must be the same Doomsday Machine before.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

Dr Kurdy, from Altrincham, went on to set up the I Forgive Hate and gives talks to schools, community groups and in prisons.

From BBC • Dec. 30, 2025

Forgive my morbid tone, but leave enough for funeral expenses and to settle your estate.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 29, 2025

It’s a spirit that carries over to Erivo’s new solo album, “I Forgive You,” which comes out Friday.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2025

Forgive me, Kitty, they don’t call me a bundle of contradictions for nothing!

From "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank

Vocabulary lists containing forgive

Excerpt from "Kira-Kira"

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!

forgive

Example Sentences

Related Words

Vocabulary lists containing forgive

Excerpt from "Kira-Kira"