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  1. Home /
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  3. English Dictionary /
  4. be forgiving

be forgiving

/biː fɔːˈɡɪvɪŋ/
to be tolerant and understanding

She asked him to be forgiving after his mistake.

She wanted him to show tolerance and understanding.


informal

To show tolerance and understanding toward others' mistakes or shortcomings

Even though he hurt her feelings, she chose to be forgiving.

She decided to be understanding and not hold a grudge.

Being forgiving is important in any healthy relationship.

Tolerance and understanding are key to maintaining strong relationships.

This phrase emphasizes patience and compassion in interpersonal interactions.

Collocations

be forgiving ofto tolerate or accept someone's mistakesbe forgiving towardto show understanding toward someone

Synonyms

be tolerantbe understandingbe lenientbe compassionate

Antonyms

be unforgivingbe harshbe judgmentalbe resentful

Related Phrases

forgive and forgetphrase
to pardon someone and move on without holding a grudge
turn the other cheekphrase
to respond to injury or insult with patience and forbearance

Pro Tip

Use in Relationships

Being forgiving can help resolve conflicts and strengthen bonds.

Gold Rule

Balance Forgiveness with Boundaries

While being forgiving is important, it's also crucial to set healthy boundaries.

Word Origin

Derived from the verb 'forgive,' which comes from Old English 'forgiefan,' meaning 'to give up, abandon, or pardon.'

Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in personal and professional contexts to encourage patience and empathy.

Word Breakdown

be
to exist or act in a certain way
verb
+
forgiving
willing to pardon or overlook offenses
adjective
English Dictionary
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