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verb

forego

faw-GOH

Forego (verb) means to come before; to precede. Example: “The introduction foregoes the main argument of the book.”

verb
1
To come before; to precede.
"The introduction foregoes the main argument of the book."

How to Use Forego

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo go before something else in order or time.

Common mistake

Forego means "to come before" (as in "the foregoing chapter"); forgo (no e) means "to do without" something — many writers mix these up.

Easily confused with

Word Forms

forewent past tense, foregone past tense, foregoes singular

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The introduction _____ the main argument of the book.

Etymology

From Old English foregān, equivalent to fore- + go.

Origin: Old English

forfeit waive relinquish forgo precede predate give up antecede antedate foreswear dispense with throw overboard

Related Words

Rhymes for forego

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “forego” mean?

The word “forego” means to come before; to precede. In plain terms, to go before something else in order or time.

How do you pronounce “forego”?

“Forego” is pronounced faw-GOH (/fɔɹˈɡoʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “forego” in a sentence?

Here is “forego” used in a sentence: “The introduction foregoes the main argument of the book.”

What part of speech is “forego”?

“Forego” is a verb.

Where does the word “forego” come from?

The word “forego” comes from Old English. From Old English foregān, equivalent to fore- + go.

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