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Definition of forgivable

forgivable

/fɚˈɡɪv.ə.bəl/
for · giv · a · ble
Adverb:forgivably
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forgivable Lexical Profile

forgivable Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Able to be forgiven, pardoned, or excused; not severe enough to warrant lasting resentment or punishment.

Example

"Arriving a few minutes late due to unexpected traffic was a completely forgivable mistake."

2

Eligible to be canceled or waived without requiring repayment under specified conditions (especially of a financial loan or debt).

Example

"The municipal government offered forgivable loans to small businesses that retained their employees throughout the economic downturn."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

While 'forgivable' is the standard modern spelling in both American and British English, the variant 'forgiveable' (retaining the silent 'e') is occasionally seen in older or less formal British texts.

• Rhymes for forgivable

• Nearby Words

forgettable
forgetter
forging
forgivable
forgivably
forgive
forgiveness

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English during the 14th century from the verb 'forgive' (Old English 'forgiefan', meaning to give up or pardon) combined with the Anglo-French suffix '-able'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Forgivable. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/forgivable
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