# forgo

/fɔɹˈɡoʊ/ (US) · /fˈɔːɡəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/forgo
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to choose not to have or use something, even if you want it. It is a more formal way to say 'to give up'.

For teachers: to deliberately choose not to have or use something; to give up or do without. Often used in formal or literary contexts to describe a conscious sacrifice.

## Examples

- He decided to forgo his lunch to finish the report.
- The company chose to forgo short-term profits in order to invest in sustainable energy sources for the future.
- By forgo the traditional opening ceremony, the organizers hoped to save time and ensure the event started exactly at noon as scheduled.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.