forgiveness
6 synonyms and 3 antonyms for forgiveness, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The act of no longer being angry at someone for a wrong they did.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use forgiveness
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ask for forgiveness
grant forgiveness
seek forgiveness
Etymology
From Old English forġiefnes, from forgive + -ness.
Full origin of forgiveness →Frequently asked questions
What does “forgiveness” mean?
The word “forgiveness” means the act of no longer being angry at someone for a wrong they did. In plain terms, letting go of resentment or blame toward someone who wronged you.
How do you pronounce “forgiveness”?
“Forgiveness” is pronounced fuh-GIHV-nuhs (/fɚˈɡɪvnəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “forgiveness” in a sentence?
Here is “forgiveness” used in a sentence: “She sought forgiveness for the years of silence.”
What part of speech is “forgiveness”?
“Forgiveness” is a noun.
Where does the word “forgiveness” come from?
The word “forgiveness” comes from Old English. From Old English forġiefnes, from forgive + -ness.
Is “forgiveness” a common word?
“Forgiveness” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'forgiveness' and 'mercy'?
Forgiveness is letting go of anger or resentment toward someone for a wrong they did. Mercy is choosing not to punish someone as harshly as one could, often by a person in authority. You can forgive without having power to punish, whereas mercy involves withholding deserved punishment.
What is the difference between 'forgiveness' and 'reconciliation'?
Forgiveness is an inner act, releasing anger toward someone for their wrongdoing. Reconciliation is the outward restoring of a relationship between two parties. You can forgive someone without reconciling, especially if trust or contact is not restored.
What is the difference between 'forgiving' and 'forgetting'?
Forgiving means no longer holding a wrong against someone, while forgetting means simply not remembering it. Forgiveness does not require forgetting; a person can fully forgive an offence while still remembering that it happened.
What is the difference between 'forgiveness' and a 'pardon'?
Forgiveness is personal, with an individual letting go of resentment for a wrong. A pardon is usually official, when an authority formally cancels a punishment or legal penalty. Forgiveness changes feelings, while a pardon changes legal or formal consequences.
