What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
condone
Example
I cannot condone cheating on exams. [condone: verb]
Example
By not speaking up, you are condoning their behavior. [condoning: gerund or present participle]
forgive
Example
I forgive you for what you did. [forgive: verb]
Example
It's important to learn to forgive in order to move on from past hurts. [forgiving: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Forgive is more commonly used than condone in everyday language. Forgive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while condone is less common and refers to a more specific type of acceptance of wrongdoing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between condone and forgive?
Both condone and forgive can be used in formal and informal contexts, but condone may be perceived as more formal due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.
