What does “To err is human, to forgive divine” mean?

"To err is human, to forgive divine" means that it is natural for people to make mistakes, but it is a noble and godly act to forgive others for their mistakes.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

We all make mistakes, after all, to err is human, to forgive divine.

Example

It takes a big heart to forgive someone, as they say, to err is human, to forgive divine.

Example

In the face of someone's wrongdoing, remember that to err is human, to forgive divine

Is “To err is human, to forgive divine” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“To err is human, to forgive divine” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “To err is human, to forgive divine” effectively in context?

You can use "To err is human, to forgive divine" to remind yourself or others that making mistakes is a natural part of being human, and forgiving others for their mistakes is a noble and godly act. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:

1Personal Relationships
After their argument, she realized that to err is human, to forgive divine, and decided to forgive her friend for their misunderstanding.
After their argument, she realized that to err is human, to forgive divine, and decided to forgive her friend for their misunderstanding.
2Workplace
In a team setting, it's important to remember that to err is human, to forgive divine. Instead of blaming each other for mistakes, the team should focus on finding solutions and moving forward.
In a team setting, it's important to remember that to err is human, to forgive divine. Instead of blaming each other for mistakes, the team should focus on finding solutions and moving forward.
3Self-Reflection
When reflecting on your own mistakes, remind yourself that to err is human, to forgive divine. Learn from your mistakes and forgive yourself for any shortcomings.
When reflecting on your own mistakes, remind yourself that to err is human, to forgive divine. Learn from your mistakes and forgive yourself for any shortcomings.

Similar phrases to “To err is human, to forgive divine”:

To err is human

It is natural for people to make mistakes

Example

Nobody is perfect, to err is human.

Forgive and forget

To let go of past mistakes or grievances and move on

Example

In order to heal their relationship, they had to forgive and forget.

To make amends

To take action to correct a mistake or repair a relationship

Example

He decided to make amends by apologizing and offering to help.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “To err is human, to forgive divine” come from?

The origin of the phrase "To err is human, to forgive divine" can be traced back to an essay written by Alexander Pope, an English poet, in the 18th century. In his essay 'An Essay on Criticism,' Pope wrote, 'To err is human, to forgive divine.' The phrase has since become a popular proverb, emphasizing the human tendency to make mistakes and the virtue of forgiveness.

Is “To err is human, to forgive divine” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "To err is human, to forgive divine" is a well-known proverb that is frequently used in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the idea that making mistakes is a natural part of being human and that forgiveness is a virtuous and divine quality.

What tone does “To err is human, to forgive divine” have?

"To err is human, to forgive divine" conveys a tone of understanding, compassion, and wisdom. It encourages empathy towards others and promotes the value of forgiveness.

Can “To err is human, to forgive divine” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "To err is human, to forgive divine" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is a widely recognized proverb that conveys a universal truth about human nature and forgiveness. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as speeches, presentations, or written essays.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'We all make mistakes, after all, "to err is human, to forgive divine".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "to err is human, to forgive divine".'

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

let bygones be bygones
everyone makes mistakes
mistakes happen
pardon others' faults
absolve and release

Antonyms

retaliate
hold grudges
seek revenge
bear a grudge
refuse to forgive