What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forever
Example
I will love you forever. [forever: adverb]
Example
The memory of that day will stay with me forever. [forever: noun]
permanently
Example
He lost his job permanently due to his misconduct. [permanently: adverb]
Example
The damage to the building was so severe that it had to be permanently closed. [permanently: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Permanently is more commonly used than forever in everyday language, especially in formal or technical contexts. Forever is more commonly used in emotional or romantic contexts, such as love songs or poetry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forever and permanently?
Permanently is generally more formal than forever, as it is often used in legal or technical documents to indicate a final decision or an irreversible consequence. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
