Forgive me

USAGE SUMMARY

"Forgive me" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to express regret or apology for something that has already been done. For example: "I'm sorry for being so rude; please forgive me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Forgive me.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Forgive me," he said.

The New Yorker

Forgive me, fellow parents.

The New York Times - Magazine

Forgive me for dreaming.

The New York Times

Forgive me?" She will.

The New York Times

"Forgive me, dear girl.

Independent

"Forgive me," she said.

The New Yorker

Forgive me, Bruno.

The New Yorker

"Forgive me," he read.

The New Yorker

Forgive me, André, forgive me France".

The Guardian - Arts

"Forgive me," Bishop wrote.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Forgive me" when you genuinely regret your actions and seek reconciliation. Ensure your apology is sincere and accompanied by a willingness to make amends.

Common error

Avoid using "Forgive me" as a mere formality or to quickly dismiss the consequences of your actions. It should be reserved for situations where you truly understand the impact of your mistake and are committed to rectifying it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Forgive me" functions primarily as an imperative, a direct request. It's used to solicit forgiveness from someone who has been wronged. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Reference

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Forgive me" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express remorse and seek absolution. As evidenced by Ludwig's AI and extensive examples, its primary function is to directly request forgiveness, suitable for various contexts from news and media to academic settings. While generally neutral in register, the sincerity behind the phrase is crucial. Remember, as with any apology, "Forgive me" should be used genuinely and with a willingness to make amends.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am sorry, please forgive me

Combines a statement of sorrow with a direct request for forgiveness.

I hope you can forgive me

Expresses a hope for future forgiveness.

Please pardon me

Uses "pardon" instead of "forgive", implying a request for excusing a minor offense.

Be kind and forgive me

Appeals to the listener's kindness in granting forgiveness.

I beg your forgiveness

More formal and emphatic request for forgiveness.

I apologize

A direct statement of apology, without explicitly asking for forgiveness.

My apologies

A formal and concise expression of apology.

Excuse my mistake

Focuses on the mistake made, asking for it to be excused.

I regret my actions

Focuses on the regret felt for the actions committed.

Pardon my intrusion

Asks forgiveness for an interruption or imposition.

FAQs

How to use "Forgive me" in a sentence?

"Forgive me" is typically used as a direct plea for absolution after admitting a fault. For example, "I understand I made a mistake; please "forgive me"".

What can I say instead of "Forgive me"?

You can use alternatives like "I apologize", "pardon me", or "I beg your forgiveness" depending on the context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "Forgive me"?

It is appropriate to use "Forgive me" when you have wronged someone and you are sincerely seeking their absolution. It's best used when you acknowledge your mistake and demonstrate a willingness to make amends.

What's the difference between "excuse me" and "Forgive me"?

"Excuse me" is typically used for minor transgressions or to get someone's attention, while "Forgive me" is used for more significant offenses where you seek genuine absolution and understanding.