gets forgiven

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gets forgiven" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is granted forgiveness for a mistake or wrongdoing, often in a passive construction. Example: "After much reflection, he finally gets forgiven for his past mistakes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This country can understand a redemption story: man screws up, talks endlessly to a therapist about family narratives and feedback loops, offers himself up, gets forgiven by loyal wife.

The New Yorker

Sure, Sookie discovers that Bill both killed her pedophile uncle and turned young Jessica into a vampire, but all gets forgiven in the aforementioned fang bang.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

He took a while to get forgiven".

The New Yorker

Really rotten people get forgiven, in the comedies and romances, at least, in ways that still make us uneasy.

The New Yorker

"You cannot violate the rules of a process, and then expect to get forgiven for it," Mr. Dean told CNN, adding, "You've gotta play by the rules".

The New York Times

Eat like a pig at the trough and a lot of stupid mistakes get forgiven.

Vice

Did you give more than you got? Forgive more than you fought?

The New York Times

"Maybe I'll get forgiven," he said shakily.

The New Yorker

Whatever events that were out of my control – the ones that were in my control have conspired so that people, by the time [the premiere] gets here, might have forgiven us.

The New York Times

Producing freshly home baked goods might get you forgiven for almost anything.

WikiHow

2.55pm BST "You've got to forgive them," says Mark Exton.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gets forgiven" when you want to emphasize the process or act of forgiveness being received, especially in situations where it might not be automatically granted.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "gets forgiven" can sound slightly informal. In highly formal writing, consider using "is forgiven" or "receives forgiveness" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gets forgiven" functions as a passive construction, indicating that someone is the recipient of forgiveness. It highlights the state of being forgiven rather than the act of forgiving. Ludwig's examples illustrate this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gets forgiven" is a grammatically correct and usable passive construction that describes the act of someone receiving forgiveness. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for neutral to informal contexts like news and media. For more formal writing, "is forgiven" or "receives forgiveness" are better alternatives. While not a very common phrase, its usage is clear and consistent in portraying the recipient of forgiveness. Remember to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and the formality of your writing when choosing between "gets forgiven" and its alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is pardoned

Focuses on the act of being officially excused or absolved of blame.

is shown mercy

Focuses on the compassion and leniency extended to the person.

receives absolution

Emphasizes the religious or spiritual aspect of forgiveness.

is absolved of sin

Refers to spiritual cleansing and forgiveness of transgressions.

is exonerated

Highlights being cleared of any wrongdoing or guilt.

is given a clean slate

Suggests a fresh start after past mistakes are forgiven.

earns redemption

Suggests that forgiveness is gained through positive actions or change.

is reconciled with

Highlights the restoration of a relationship after a period of conflict or estrangement.

finds grace

Implies that forgiveness is received as a gift or act of kindness.

is let off the hook

An informal expression indicating that someone is excused from punishment or responsibility.

FAQs

How can I use "gets forgiven" in a sentence?

You can use "gets forgiven" to describe a situation where someone is granted forgiveness, such as, "After apologizing, he finally "gets forgiven" by his family".

What is a more formal alternative to "gets forgiven"?

In formal contexts, consider using "is forgiven" or "receives forgiveness" as alternatives.

Is there a difference between "gets forgiven" and "is forgiven"?

"Gets forgiven" emphasizes the process of receiving forgiveness, while "is forgiven" is a more general statement about being forgiven. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "gets forgiven" instead of "forgives"?

Use "gets forgiven" when the focus is on the person receiving forgiveness, not the person granting it. For example, "He "gets forgiven"" highlights his situation, while "She forgives him" focuses on her action.