What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forgive
Example
I forgive you for what you said earlier. [forgive: verb]
Example
It's important to forgive yourself for past mistakes. [forgive: reflexive verb]
pardon
Example
The governor pardoned the prisoner after serving 10 years in jail. [pardon: verb]
Example
Please pardon my mistake, I didn't mean to offend you. [pardon: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Forgive is more common in everyday language, while pardon is more commonly used in legal or official contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between forgive and pardon?
Pardon is more formal than forgive and is often used in legal or official contexts, while forgive is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
