forgo
What does "forgo" mean?
To forgo means to choose to do without something or to give up the right to something that you might otherwise have enjoyed or possessed. The mental image is of someone voluntarily stepping away from an opportunity, a treat, or a privilege, often for a greater good or because of a pressing obligation. This is a formal verb that is frequently used in professional or academic contexts. It is most commonly paired with nouns like "pleasure," "opportunity," "right," or "luxury." While "forgo" implies a voluntary decision, it carries a slightly more serious tone than the word "skip."
"forgo" in conversation
Work meeting
We have a tight budget this quarter, so we must forgo the annual retreat.
We have a tight budget this quarter, so we must forgo the annual retreat.
That is disappointing, but I understand the necessity.
That is disappointing, but I understand the necessity.
Used here to describe a corporate decision to cancel a luxury.
Dietary choices
Are you having dessert?
Are you having dessert?
No, I am forgoing sweets until the marathon next month.
No, I am forgoing sweets until the marathon next month.
Highlights the voluntary nature of giving up a pleasure for a goal.
"forgo" in a sentence
I decided to forgo coffee today.
I decided to forgo coffee today.
She chose to forgo her vacation to finish the project on time.
She chose to forgo her vacation to finish the project on time.
The defendant chose to forgo his right to a jury trial in favor of a bench trial.
The defendant chose to forgo his right to a jury trial in favor of a bench trial.
