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 league rules. [forfeit: verb]
Example
He knew that speaking out would mean forfeiting his job. [forfeiting: gerund or present participle]
waive
Example
The company decided to waive the application fee for all new customers. [waive: verb]
Example
The judge agreed to waive the defendant's right to a trial by jury. [waive: verb]
Example
We can waive the deadline for this assignment if you have a valid reason. [waive: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Waive is less common than forfeit in everyday language, but it is more commonly used in formal contexts such as legal and business settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forfeit and waive?
Waive is generally considered more formal than forfeit, and it is often used in legal and business contexts where precision and clarity are important.
