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What is the Meaning of “Forget”?

Forget
/fərˈɡɛt/

To not remember something you knew before; to lose it from memory.

Definition of Forget

Quick Meaning of Forget

To not remember something you knew before; to lose it from memory.

Detailed Definition of Forget

To fail to remember something or someone.

How to Pronounce Forget

IPA: /fərˈɡɛt/
for get

Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).

Tip: Stress the second syllable: for-GET. The first 'for' is unstressed and quick.

Watch out: Stress is on second syllable; avoid stressing first: should be for-GET not FOR-get.

Full pronunciation guide for “forget” →

Origin and Etymology of Forget

From Old English 'forgietan' meaning to lose memory of.

How to Use Forget in a Sentence

Each example shows “forget” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “I always forget my keys at home.”
    A1 daily
  • “She forgot the address of the restaurant.”
    A1 daily
  • “Don't forget to bring your passport for the trip.”
    A1 conversation

Synonyms and Antonyms of Forget

Common Synonyms for Forget

Smart Synonyms for Forget — When to Use Each

overlook
when you fail to notice something deliberately or
miss
when you fail to do something important due

Antonyms of Forget

See all synonyms for “forget” →

Common Collocations with Forget

These phrases pair with “forget” in everyday English:

  • forget about
  • forget to do
  • forget your keys
  • easily forget
  • never forget

Common Mistakes When Using Forget

Even fluent speakers slip up with “forget”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: I forget my homework in school.
✓ Correct: I forgot my homework at school.
Why: Past tense requires past simple 'forgot' when describing completed past action.
✗ Wrong: She forget to call her mother.
✓ Correct: She forgot to call her mother.
Why: Third person singular past: use 'forgot' not 'forget'; article: 'at school' not 'in school' for location.

Words Confused With Forget

  • Forget vs Forgive: Similar pronunciation but different meaning: forgive means pardon/excuse; forget means lose memory. Compare →

Other Forms of Forget

Frequently Asked Questions About Forget

What is the meaning of "Forget"?

To not remember something you knew before; to lose it from memory.

How do you pronounce "Forget"?

The IPA is /fərˈɡɛt/. Stress the second syllable: for-GET. The first 'for' is unstressed and quick.

What part of speech is "Forget"?

"Forget" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Forget"?

Common synonyms include overlook, miss, disregard.

How do you use "Forget" in a sentence?

For example: "I always forget my keys at home."

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