English Reference

Word

forgettable

Phoneticsfor·get·table

US/fɝˈɡɛtəbəɫ/

UK/fəɡˈɛtəbəl/

Definition

adj. easy to forget. You use this to describe something that does not leave a strong impression on you.

adj. easily forgotten or not likely to be remembered. Often used to describe people, events, or experiences that lack distinctive qualities.

Examples

“The movie was so forgettable that I don't remember the plot.”

“The party was a forgettable event because the music was too loud and the food was terrible.”

“While the lead actor's performance was stellar, the supporting cast was largely forgettable, failing to leave a lasting impression on the audience.”

Examples

simple

“The movie was so forgettable that I don't remember the plot.”

contextual

“The party was a forgettable event because the music was too loud and the food was terrible.”

complex

“While the lead actor's performance was stellar, the supporting cast was largely forgettable, failing to leave a lasting impression on the audience.”

Real-World Examples

“The Black Stars were ultra-defensive, scoring only twice as they limped out of the tournament as one of the most forgettable teams involved.”
The Guardian 17 Aug 2026
“Nathan Patterson, whose Everton future is uncertain, featured in all three of Scotland’s forgettable group campaign.”
The Guardian 13 Aug 2026

Etymology

From forget + -able.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference