Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
have forgiven
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"have forgiven" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used whenever you want to express a sense of forgiveness, such as in the following example: "I understand that I made a mistake, and I'm sorry. I hope you can find it in your heart to have forgiven me."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Heaven is to have forgiven -- or to have forgiven-ish, the best you can, for now.
News & Media
I think baseball would have forgiven him.
News & Media
"The fans have forgiven her," he added.
News & Media
"She would have forgiven this young man".
News & Media
He seems never to have forgiven her.
News & Media
I have forgiven without it.
News & Media
He wouldn't have forgiven it in himself.
News & Media
Absolutely, yes, I have forgiven my father.
News & Media
She appears to have forgiven him.
News & Media
I would never have forgiven myself.
News & Media
But, he says, I Have Forgiven Jesus.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "have forgiven" to clearly indicate that forgiveness has been granted, especially when emphasizing the completion of the act.
Common error
Avoid using "have forgiven" when referring to an ongoing process of forgiving. Instead, consider "are forgiving" or "are in the process of forgiving" to convey the continuous nature of the action.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "have forgiven" functions as a present perfect verb phrase. It indicates a completed action in the past that has relevance or consequences in the present. Ludwig AI provides several examples showcasing its use in various contexts.
Frequent in
News & Media
80%
Wiki
7%
Science
3%
Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Reference
4%
Encyclopedias
4%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "have forgiven" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that indicates a completed act of forgiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately conveys the idea that forgiveness has been granted and is relevant to the present situation. Avoid using it when describing an ongoing process of forgiving. Remember, "have forgiven" signifies the end of resentment and the beginning of acceptance.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
borne no grudge
Highlights the lack of resentment and the ability to move on.
made peace with
Emphasizes reconciliation and the restoration of harmony.
let go of resentment
Focuses on the internal emotional process of releasing negative feelings.
showed mercy
Highlights the compassion and leniency displayed.
granted forgiveness
Emphasizes the act of bestowing forgiveness from one party to another.
pardoned the offense
Implies a formal or legal act of forgiveness.
extended clemency
Implies a formal or official act of leniency.
absolved of blame
Focuses on releasing someone from responsibility for wrongdoing.
overlooked the transgression
Suggests a conscious decision to ignore or minimize the offense.
turned the other cheek
Refers to a biblical idiom of enduring offense without retaliation.
FAQs
How is "have forgiven" used in a sentence?
The phrase "have forgiven" indicates that the act of forgiving is completed. For example, "I "have forgiven" my friend for the mistake they made" implies that the forgiveness is already granted.
What are some alternatives to "have forgiven"?
Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "granted forgiveness", "pardoned", or "absolved" as alternatives to "have forgiven". Each carries a slightly different nuance.
Is it correct to say "had forgiven" instead of "have forgiven"?
While both are grammatically correct, "had forgiven" indicates an action completed before a specific point in the past, whereas "have forgiven" relates the action to the present.
What's the difference between "have forgiven" and "forgive"?
"Forgive" is the base verb form, while "have forgiven" is the present perfect tense, indicating a completed action with present relevance. For example, "I forgive you" expresses immediate forgiveness, while "I "have forgiven" you" implies forgiveness has already occurred.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested