The phrase forgive and forget embodies the concept of letting go of anger, resentment, or grudges toward someone who has caused harm, and moving forward without dwelling on the past. It emphasizes the importance of both emotional release and not allowing the memory of the offense to hinder future relationships. To forgive and forget doesn’t mean condoning the wrongdoing but rather choosing peace over prolonged conflict or bitterness. In personal relationships, it can help restore trust and intimacy, while in professional or social contexts, it fosters collaboration and reduces tension. The act of forgiving and forgetting requires maturity, empathy, and sometimes time, as not all wounds heal immediately. While some believe forgetting is unrealistic, the spirit of the phrase suggests not letting past wrongs cloud future interactions. It’s a timeless principle that underscores the value of reconciliation and emotional freedom, reminding us that holding onto anger often hurts ourselves more than others. In choosing to forgive and forget, individuals demonstrate strength, wisdom, and a focus on growth and harmony.
Sample Sentences
- After their argument, they decided it was best to forgive and forget.
- True friendship often requires the ability to forgive and forget.
- She believed in the principle of forgive and forget to maintain peace.
- It’s not always easy to forgive and forget, but it’s worth the effort.
- They resolved to forgive and forget after years of misunderstanding.
- Sometimes, forgiving and forgetting is the only way to move forward.
- He asked for a chance to make amends, hoping she would forgive and forget.
- The company’s policy encouraged employees to forgive and forget minor mistakes.
- The community meeting ended with a promise to forgive and forget.
- Life is too short not to forgive and forget the small things.
Synonyms for “Forgive and Forget”
- Let bygones be bygones
- Move on
- Bury the hatchet
- Extend an olive branch
- Turn the page
- Make peace
- Release grudges
- Wipe the slate clean
- Heal and reconcile
- Resolve differences
Antonyms for “Forgive and Forget”
- Hold a grudge
- Bear resentment
- Refuse to reconcile
- Harbor ill will
- Keep bitterness alive
- Nurse a grievance
- Prolong anger
- Dwell on the past
- Seek revenge
- Worsen conflict
Related Words and Expressions
Related Words:
- Reconciliation
- Peace
- Understanding
- Acceptance
- Compassion
- Empathy
- Closure
- Harmony
- Release
- Renewal
Phrasal Verbs:
- Let go of (to release anger or resentment)
- Move past (to progress beyond a conflict or hurt)
- Get over (to recover from emotional pain)
- Patch up (to repair a damaged relationship)
- Smooth over (to ease tensions or disagreements)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Let sleeping dogs lie (to avoid stirring up old issues)
- Turn the other cheek (to respond to an offense with forgiveness)
- Bury the hatchet (to reconcile and make peace)
- Wipe the slate clean (to start afresh by letting go of past grievances)
- Time heals all wounds (suggesting that time helps people move past pain or conflict)
