English Reference
verb · noun

forgetting

v. · n.
US /fɝˈɡɛtɪŋ/ UK /fəɡˈɛtɪŋ/ for·get·ting

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    v.the state of not being able to bring a memory or fact back into your mind.

    v.the present participle of 'forget', describing the ongoing or habitual failure to retrieve information from long-term memory.

    Simple

    I am always forgetting where I put my glasses when I am in a hurry.

    In context

    He found himself forgetting even the most basic details of the contract as the stress of the negotiation mounted.

    Pitfall
    I am forgetting my keys every day. I forget my keys every day.

    Use the simple present 'forget' for habits. Use the continuous 'forgetting' only for a process happening right now or a gradual change.

    blankinglosing
  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    v.failing to do something you were supposed to do.

    v.the act of unintentionally omitting a required action or duty.

    Simple

    Forgetting to lock the door is a mistake I only made once.

    In context

    Forgetting to include the primary stakeholder in the initial email thread caused significant delays in the project's approval phase.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Academic

    n.the mental process of losing a memory.

    n.the psychological or cognitive process by which information is lost or becomes inaccessible in the mind.

    Simple

    The doctor explained that some forgetting is a normal part of getting older.

    In context

    The study explores the mechanics of intentional forgetting, where the brain actively suppresses traumatic or irrelevant information to maintain cognitive health.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Frequent
Updated