Forgo Meaning and Definition
Forgo
Pronunciation
/ˈfɔːɡoʊ/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To abstain from or give up something, often voluntarily or as a sacrifice.
Examples
- She decided to forgo her morning coffee to save money.
- He chose to forgo the promotion to spend more time with his family.
Synonyms
- Abstain
- Give up
- Sacrifice
Antonyms
- Indulge
- Partake
- Take advantage of
Additional Information
Forgoing something can be a difficult decision, but it can also lead to personal growth and a greater sense of accomplishment. In many cases, forgoing a luxury or pleasure can allow one to focus on more important goals or priorities.
Forgoing can also be a selfless act, where one puts the needs of others before their own desires. This can lead to stronger relationships and a greater sense of community.
Etymology
The word “forgo” comes from the Old English words “for” meaning “away” and “gān” meaning “to go”. It has evolved over time to mean giving up or abstaining from something.
Usage Notes
Forgo is often used in formal or written contexts, such as in business or academic writing. In informal conversations, it is often replaced with more casual phrases such as “give up” or “pass on”.
Cultural References
Forgo has been used in various literary works, including Shakespeare’s plays, to convey themes of sacrifice and selflessness.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Forgo the pleasure
- Forgo the advantage
- Forgo the luxury
Related Words or Phrases
- Abstain
- Give up
- Sacrifice
- Waive
Collocations
- Forgo the opportunity
- Forgo the pleasure
- Forgo the benefit
Frequency of Use
Forgo is a moderately used word in modern language, often found in formal or written contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Forgoe
- Forgow
- Forgoing