Forgives

Forgives is the present tense, third-person singular form of the verb forgive. The act of forgiving involves ceasing to feel anger, resentment, or the urge to punish someone for a wrong, and may include granting pardon for the offense. Forgiveness can occur in personal relationships, but it also appears in religious, cultural, and legal discussions. It is distinct from forgetting or excusing the harm, and it does not require that trust be instantly restored or that the offender be unpunished.

Etymology and language: The modern word forgive traces to Old English forgifan, from for- “completely” or “away” plus giefan/giefan (to give). The sense evolved toward pardoning offenses, with the expression of releasing moral debt toward another person.

Usage and scope: In everyday language, forgives denotes someone choosing to let go of resentment toward another who has wronged them. Forgiveness is often discussed as a process that may involve empathy, perspective-taking, and a deliberate decision to release negative emotions. It does not inherently mean forgetting, approving, or restoring a relationship, nor does it obligate a future trust. Some contexts treat forgiveness as conditional, especially where harm recurs or legitimate boundaries are at stake.

Context and implications: Religious traditions frequently frame forgiveness as a virtue or as divine mercy. In psychology and conflict resolution, forgiveness is analyzed for its potential to reduce hostility and stress and to promote reconciliation, though recognition of harm and accountability remains important. Overall, forgives as a grammatical form marks a specific subject’s action in the broader and multidimensional concept of forgiveness.