Forego vs. Forgo – Which is Correct?
Understanding the difference between the terms forego and forgo is essential for clear communication. While both terms may sometimes be used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and usage contexts that can affect the clarity of your writing. In this article, we will explore the specifics of each word, including their correct usage, forms, etymology, and provide some practice exercises.
Forego or Forgo – Which is Correct?
Both forego and forgo are valid English words, yet they are used in different contexts. Forgo means to decide not to do or have something, often something desirable. On the other hand, forego is less commonly used, meaning to go before or precede. It is important to choose the correct term based on the intended meaning.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Forgo | To decide not to do or have something. | I decided to forgo dessert to maintain my diet. |
| Forego | To go before; to precede. | The forego of the event was quite impressive, setting the tone for what was to come. |
How to Use Forgo
Forgo is used to express the act of intentionally choosing not to partake in something. It typically relates to pleasures or luxuries.
Example 1: She chose to forgo the opportunity to travel in order to save money.
Example 2: Many athletes forgo certain foods to maintain peak performance.
Example 3: He will forgo his vacation this year to save for a home.
What are the different forms of Forgo?
Forgo is a verb and its forms include:
– Base Form: forgo
– Present Tense: forgo/forgoes
– Past Tense: forwent
– Past Participle: forgone
– Present Participle: forgoing
Etymology of the word Forgo
The word forgo originates from the Middle English forgonen, which means to refuse or relinquish. It combines the prefix “for-” (meaning before) with “go.”
How to Use Forego
Forego is less commonly used and is generally seen in formal contexts, where it means to go before or precede something else.
Example 1: The forego of the application process requires several documents.
Example 2: In history, certain customs can forego later legal developments.
Example 3: The forego of the announcement was poorly timed.
What are the different forms of Forego?
Forego does not have a widely recognized set of forms like forgo. It is primarily used in the base form and can occasionally be adapted with more context to fit different tenses.
Etymology of the word Forego
The term forego comes from the Middle English forgoen, denoting to go before. It stems from the Old English “for” which means “before,” and “ga” which means “go.”
Practice Exercises
- To maintain a healthy lifestyle, he decided to _______ junk food.
- Before the first snowfall, the leaves began to _______ fall.
- It is often necessary to _______ personal luxuries for financial reasons.
- Traditions that _______ modern practices hold special meaning.
- In certain cultures, one may _______ conflict to maintain peace.
Answer Key
- forgo
- forego
- forgo
- forego
- forgo
Forgo Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Renounce | To formally declare one’s abandonment of a claim or right. |
| Waive | To refrain from insisting on or using a right or claim. |
| Abstain | To restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something. |
Forego Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Precede | To come before in time, order, or position. |
| Antedate | To be earlier than (a date, event, or item). |
| Predate | To exist or occur at a date earlier than something. |
Conclusion
In summary, while forgo and forego are two words that may appear similar, their meanings are quite distinct. Understanding the correct context for each can greatly enhance your clarity in communication.
