Forgiveness — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /fər-ˈgiv-nəs/ for·give·ness

Meaning & Definition of Forgiveness

Forgiveness (noun)

  1. the act of forgiving

Forgiveness (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. release from the guilt or penalty of an offense

    "they asked her forgiveness for failing to invite her to the party"

    similar: absolution, amnesty, pardon, remission, remittal
    related: parole, acquittal, exculpation, exoneration, vindication, condonation, exemption, immunity, impunity, indemnity, commutation, commuting, reprieve, clemency, leniency, mercy
    opposite: penalty, punishment, retribution
    near: conviction, sentence, assessment, charge, fine, imposition, levying, castigation, chastening, chastisement, condemnation

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Forgiveness

The most common words with a similar meaning to Forgiveness:

absolution, amnesty, pardon, remission, remittal

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Forgiveness

Words with the opposite meaning of Forgiveness:

penalty, punishment, retribution

Related Words for Forgiveness

parole, acquittal, exculpation, exoneration, vindication, condonation, exemption, immunity, impunity, indemnity, commutation, commuting, reprieve, clemency, leniency, mercy

Near Antonyms of Forgiveness

conviction, sentence, assessment, charge, fine, imposition, levying, castigation, chastening, chastisement, condemnation

Origin & Etymology of Forgiveness

First known use: before 12th century

Frequently Asked Questions about Forgiveness

What does "Forgiveness" mean?

"Forgiveness" means the act of forgiving. As a noun, it is defined as: the act of forgiving.

What is another word for "Forgiveness"?

Other words for "Forgiveness" include absolution, amnesty, pardon, remission and remittal. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Forgiveness" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Forgiveness"?

There are 21 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Forgiveness". Common alternatives include absolution, amnesty, pardon, remission and remittal.

What is the opposite of "Forgiveness"?

Antonyms of "Forgiveness" include penalty, punishment and retribution. Near antonyms include conviction, sentence, assessment and charge.

How do you use "Forgiveness" in a sentence?

Examples of "Forgiveness" in a sentence: "they asked her forgiveness for failing to invite her to the party".

Is "Forgiveness" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Forgiveness" is a noun.

How do you pronounce "Forgiveness"?

"Forgiveness" is pronounced /fər-ˈgiv-nəs/ and divided into syllables as for·give·ness.

What is the origin of the word "Forgiveness"?

First known use: before 12th century.