What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forfeit
Example
If you don't pay your rent on time, you will forfeit your security deposit. [forfeit: verb]
Example
The team had to forfeit the game due to a violation of the rules. [forfeit: verb]
Example
He had to forfeit his driver's license after getting too many speeding tickets. [forfeit: verb]
relinquish
Example
She decided to relinquish her position as CEO to spend more time with her family. [relinquish: verb]
Example
He had to relinquish his hold on the rope in order to save himself from falling. [relinquish: verb]
Example
The company was forced to relinquish its patent due to a legal dispute. [relinquish: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relinquish is less common than forfeit in everyday language, but it is still a useful word to know, especially in formal or legal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between forfeit and relinquish?
Relinquish is generally considered more formal than forfeit, but both words can be used in formal settings.
