forgetfor‧get /fəˈɡet $ fər-/ ●●● S1 W1 verb (past tense forgot /-ˈɡɒt $ -ˈɡɑːt/, past participle forgotten /-ˈɡɒtn $ -ˈɡɑːtn/) 
I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name. I know you told me, but I forgot. What happened that day will never be forgotten.forget about Karl says he forgot about our date. She forgot all about their anniversary.forget (that) I forgot that there’s a speed limit here.forget how/what/when/why etc How can you forget where you’ve parked the car? He’s someone who never forgets a face (=forgets who someone is).I was forgetting ... (=said when you have just remembered or been reminded about something) spoken Oh yes, I was forgetting she was pregnant.2something you must do [intransitive, transitive] to not remember to do something that you should do: ‘Did you remember to post that letter?’ ‘Oh, sorry, I forgot.’ Give me your phone number before I forget (=forget to get it).forget to do something Someone’s forgotten to turn off their headlights.clean forget American English (=completely forget) He meant to invite Monica, but he clean forgot.3leave something somewhere [transitive] to not remember to bring something that you need with youforget your keys/money/cigarettes etc Oh no, I’ve forgotten my wallet.4stop thinking about [intransitive, transitive] to stop thinking or worrying about someone or something: Forget him, he’s not worth it. At my age, I think I can forget fashion.forget (that) After a while you’ll forget you’re wearing contact lenses.forget about I’ll never be able to forget about the accident.5not care about [intransitive, transitive] to not care about or give attention to someone or something any longerforget about Don’t forget about your old friends when you go off to college, okay? You can’t afford to forget your relationship with your husband.6stop a plan [intransitive, transitive] to stop planning to do something because it is no longer possible or sensibleforget about We’ll have to forget about going on holiday. If we can’t get any funding we might as well forget the whole thing.7not forgetting something British English used to add something to a list of things you have mentioned: You’ll have to pay for the packaging and transportation costs, not forgetting airport taxes.8forget yourself a)to do something stupid or embarrassing, especially by losing control of your emotions: Lisa forgot herself and reached out to touch his knee. b)British English to become so involved in something that you do not think about or notice anything else SYN lose yourselfforget yourself in something Often he would forget himself in his work for hours.SPOKEN PHRASES9don’t forget a)used to remind someone to do something: We need bread, milk, and eggs – don’t forget.don’t forget to do something Don’t forget to lock up when you leave. b)used to remind someone about an important fact or detail that they should considerdon’t forget (that) But don’t forget that you have to pay interest on the loan. Don’t forget, I’ll be home late tonight. c)used to remind someone to take something with them: Don’t forget your sandwiches.10forget it a)used to tell someone that something is not important and they do not need to worry about it: ‘Sorry I didn’t phone.’ ‘Forget it.’ b)used to tell someone to stop asking or talking about something, because it is annoying you: I’m not coming with you, so forget it. c) (also forget that! American English) used to tell someone that you refuse to do something or that it will be impossible to do something: ‘Can you lend me $10.’ ‘Forget it, no way.’ If you’re thinking of getting Roy to help, you can forget it! d)used when someone asks you what you just said and you do not want to repeat it: ‘What did you say?’ ‘ Nothing, just forget it.’11I’ll never forget something used to say that you will always remember something from the past, because it was sad, funny, enjoyable etc: I’ll never forget the look on his face when he opened the door.12aren’t you forgetting ...?/haven’t you forgotten ...? used to remind someone about something, often humorously: Aren’t you forgetting that you’re already married?13I forget used to say that you cannot remember a particular detail about somethingI forget what/where/how etc I forget what he said exactly but it was very rude.I forget the name/details etc I forget the name of the street, but it’s the first on the left.14and don’t you forget it! used to remind someone angrily about an important fact that should make them behave differently: I’m the boss around here, and don’t you forget it!THESAURUSforget to not remember something or someone: · I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name.· It was an experience she would never forget.don’t remember/can’t remember used when saying that you have forgotten something: · I know I needed something at the shops, but I can’t remember what it was.have no recollection of something formal to not remember anything about something that happened in the past: · He told the jury that he had no recollection of the accident.slip your mind especially spoken if something that you must do slips your mind, you forget to do it because you are busy thinking about other things: · I’m sorry I didn’t call. There was so much going on that it completely slipped my mind.it goes in one ear and out the other spoken used to say that someone forgets what you tell them very quickly because they are not interested or do not listen properly: · With kids you have to say everything twice. It all goes in one ear and out the other.my mind goes blank especially spoken used to say that you are suddenly unable to remember something at a time when you need it: · I was so nervous that my mind went blank as soon as they asked me a question.to try to forget somethingforget to deliberately try not to think about something sad or unpleasant: · After the divorce came through, I just wanted to forget about it all.put something out of your mind to make yourself stop thinking about something that stops you concentrating or makes you angry, sad, or nervous: · When I’m competing I put everything out of my mind and concentrate on winning.put something behind you to stop thinking about something sad or unpleasant that happened to you in the past, so that you can continue with your life and be happy: · It can take a long time to put a traumatic experience like that behind you.take/keep your mind off something to do something that helps you stop thinking about a problem for a short time: · Sara went out for a walk to try and take her mind off things.blot something out to forget an unpleasant memory or thought, by deliberately stopping yourself from thinking about it: · He started drinking heavily in an effort to blot out the thought of what he had done.· I wanted to blot out the events of the previous day.shut somebody/something out to deliberately forget someone or something and not let them be part of your thoughts and feelings: · The marriage was a disaster, and her husband shut her out of his life completely.
WORD ORIGINforget
Origin:
Old English forgietanVERB TABLE
forget
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | forget |
| he, she, it | forgets | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | forgot |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have forgotten |
| he, she, it | has forgotten | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had forgotten |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will forget |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have forgotten |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- "Why did Carol come back?" "She forgot her purse."
- Forget I mentioned it. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.
- a war the country was trying to forget
- Don't forget to call your mom tomorrow.
- Don't forget your lunch - it's on the counter.
- Don't let me forget my purse.
- I'd better put that on the calendar so I don't forget.
- I've forgotten her name.
- I've been trying not to think about her but my friends won't let me forget.
- I forgot all about tomorrow's exam.
- I completely forgot about the meeting.
- I keep forgetting that you're allergic to chocolate.
- If we can't get any funding, we might as well forget the whole thing.
- If you're not going to take this project seriously we might as well forget it.
- If you don't finish your homework, you can forget going skiing this weekend.
- It's his birthday tomorrow. I hope you haven't forgotten.
- It was an experience she would never forget.
- Look, we aren't making any progress - let's just forget the whole idea.
- Michael was at the airport before he realized he'd forgotten his passport.
- Oh, I forgot your camera. Is it all right if I bring it to you tomorrow?
- Back then, reporters and police were coming to the house for weeks, until people started to forget.
- But I forgot that we are now in the era of the Leisure Jam.
- But the fact is that girls, more often than boys, are told that they were forgotten and left behind.
- But they forgot how time was-flying by, and suddenly Baba Yaga stood before them.
- He examined the intercom again, but seemed to have forgotten how it worked.
- Her normally lucid style had slipped and she had forgotten huge chunks of the recent past.
- Let us not forget, however, that witchcraft is by no means the excuse for all mistakes and misadventures.
- Usually awakenings that last less than seven minutes will be forgotten the following day.
THESAURUS
to not remember something or someone: · I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name.· It was an experience she would never forget.
used when saying that you have forgotten something: · I know I needed something at the shops, but I can’t remember what it was.
formal to not remember anything about something that happened in the past: · He told the jury that he had no recollection of the accident.
especially spoken if something that you must do slips your mind, you forget to do it because you are busy thinking about other things: · I’m sorry I didn’t call. There was so much going on that it completely slipped my mind.
spoken used to say that someone forgets what you tell them very quickly because they are not interested or do not listen properly: · With kids you have to say everything twice. It all goes in one ear and out the other.
especially spoken used to say that you are suddenly unable to remember something at a time when you need it: · I was so nervous that my mind went blank as soon as they asked me a question.
to try to forget something to deliberately try not to think about something sad or unpleasant: · After the divorce came through, I just wanted to forget about it all.
to make yourself stop thinking about something that stops you concentrating or makes you angry, sad, or nervous: · When I’m competing I put everything out of my mind and concentrate on winning.
to stop thinking about something sad or unpleasant that happened to you in the past, so that you can continue with your life and be happy: · It can take a long time to put a traumatic experience like that behind you.
to do something that helps you stop thinking about a problem for a short time: · Sara went out for a walk to try and take her mind off things.
to forget an unpleasant memory or thought, by deliberately stopping yourself from thinking about it: · He started drinking heavily in an effort to blot out the thought of what he had done.· I wanted to blot out the events of the previous day.
to deliberately forget someone or something and not let them be part of your thoughts and feelings: · The marriage was a disaster, and her husband shut her out of his life completely.
Longman Language Activatorto forget something to no longer remember information, something that happened in the past, or something that you must do: · I'm sorry, I've forgotten your name.· It was an experience she would never forget.· It's his birthday tomorrow. I hope you haven't forgotten.forget what/where/how etc: · She forgot where she'd left her keys.forget (that): · I keep forgetting that you're allergic to chocolate.forget to do something: · Don't forget to call your mom tomorrow.forget about: · Tom had forgotten about Tanya coming to stay.forget all about something: · I forgot all about tomorrow's exam.completely forget: · I completely forgot about the meeting.I forget spoken (=I have forgotten): · She had this boyfriend - I forget his name - who was an actor.
to not be able to remember something that you want to remember: · "How did you get home after the party?" "I don't remember."· I was going to phone you, but I couldn't remember your number.· Brad doesn't remember much about his mother because she died when he was small.don't/can't remember doing something: · Has she got an invitation? I don't remember inviting her.don't remember/can't remember what/where/how etc: · I don't remember exactly what happened.· He couldn't remember where he put his coat.
formal to not be able to remember something: · He claims to have no recollection of the incident.· I have no recollection of living in Australia, as my family left for England when I was three years old.
if something that you must do, especially something that is not very important, slips your mind , you forget to do it because you are too busy thinking about other things: · "I'm sure we agreed to meet here.'' "Maybe it's just slipped his mind.''
to suddenly forget something spoken use this to say that you know a name or word, but you are having difficulty remembering it at that moment: · That place we visited in Paris, what's it called? It's on the tip of my tongue.
spoken if a name, detail, fact etc escapes you, you forget it for a very short time but you know you will remember it soon: · I know I've heard this song before but its name escapes me.· Although I know that the novel was published in the nineteenth century, the actual date escapes me.
spoken if you can't place someone or something, you recognize them but have forgotten their name or where you met them before: · I'm sure I've seen him before, but I just can't place him.· Her perfume seemed so familiar but he couldn't place it
if your mind goes blank you are suddenly unable to remember something at a time when you need it: · That's... Oh, my mind's gone blank -- I can't remember her name.· My mind goes blank when I have to take a test.
British to forget what you were going to say or what you are supposed to say when speaking or acting, especially because you are nervous: · I dried up just as I was about to talk, even though I had been preparing the speech for weeks.· There was one worrying moment where one of the actors seemed to dry up for a few seconds.
if details, a piece of information etc go in one ear and out the other , you forget them very quickly because you are not interested or not listening properly: · She understands nothing about football so it all goes in one ear and out the other.· He was trying to explain the assignment to me but it just went in one ear and out the other.
to forget to bring something to not bring something that you intended to bring, because you did not think of it: · Michael was at the airport before he realized he'd forgotten his passport.· Oh, I forgot your camera. Is it all right if I bring it to you tomorrow?· Don't let me forget my purse.
to forget to take something with you when you leave: · I can't find my coat - I must have left it at work.leave something behind: · Oh no! I think I left my credit card behind at the restaurant.
to try not to think about something to deliberately try not to think about something sad or unpleasant: · I've been trying not to think about her but my friends won't let me forget.· a war the country was trying to forget· Years after they had gotten divorced, Olivia found it very difficult to forget John.forget (that): · Forget I mentioned it. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.forget about: · We can forget about the accident now and concentrate on getting on with our lives.
to try to make yourself stop thinking about something that makes you angry, sad, or nervous: · It's time to put her out of your mind and find a new girlfriend.· I was nervous about flying for the first time but I tried to put it out of my mind.
to try not to think about something sad or unpleasant that happened in the past so that you can continue with your life and try to be happy: · Try and put the incident behind you and get on with normal life.· The team have put last night's loss behind them and are looking forward to next week's game.
if an activity takes your mind off a worrying problem, it makes you not think about it for a short time: · Joe suggested a game of cards to take my mind off things.· Staying busy helped keep his mind off his troubles.
someone who often forgets things to not be good at remembering facts or information: · I'm sorry for forgetting to phone her - I have a terrible memory.have a bad/terrible/awful etc memory for: · I have a bad memory for names.
usually someone who is forgetful often forgets things, especially things they have to do: · My grandfather's getting so forgetful - I have to remind him to take his medication.· She was easily distracted and forgetful at school.
someone who is absent-minded often forgets things because they are thinking about other things: · He's a brilliant scientist but hopelessly absent-minded.
British informal to not be able to remember facts or information, even for a short time: · You'd better remind him about the party - he's got a memory like a sieve!
a medical condition that makes you forget things the medical condition of not being able to remember a particular period of time or particular events or facts, caused by an injury or a very bad emotional shock: · A man suffering from amnesia was identified by his sister, who saw his picture on television.
also loss of memory the inability to remember a particular period of time or particular events or facts, especially for a short time, caused by old age, illness, the effects of drugs etc: · Heimdal was critically injured in an accident and suffered head and back injuries, and memory loss.
to decide it is better not to do something formal to not do something that you want to do or usually do, especially because you do not want to offend or upset someone: · Kate wanted to slap Keith round the face but she refrained.refrain from: · Rand refrained from comment on the scandal involving his opponent.refrain from doing something: · Please refrain from smoking in the restaurant.
to decide not to do something, especially something enjoyable, because it is considered to be bad for your health or morally wrong: · Most of the church members drink only moderately or abstain completely.abstain from: · You should abstain from food and caffeinated drinks before the operation.abstain from doing something: · Junior politicians are supposed to abstain from criticizing the government.
to not do something extreme, even though what you have been doing or saying until now makes this very likely to be the next thing you do: · The US was willing to support sanctions, but stopped short of military intervention.stop short of doing something: · Morris has strongly criticized Paulson's writings but stops short of calling him a racist.
to not do something, especially because you are worried about what will happen if you do: · He wanted to tell her everything, but something made him hold back.hold back from doing something: · Republicans have expressed interest in the plan but have held back from making a commitment.
to stop yourself from doing something you want to do, because you do not want to offend someone, spoil a secret etc: · It was all I could do to keep from hitting him.keep yourself from doing something: · Sara was so excited, she could hardly keep herself from giving away the whole plan.
to decide or agree not to do something, especially because it is likely to be unsuccessful or is unnecessary: · Look, we aren't making any progress - let's just forget the whole idea.forget it spoken: · If you're not going to take this project seriously we might as well forget it.
to not do something that you were going to do, or to think very carefully before you do it, because you know it could have a bad result: · Anyone thinking about having unprotected sex should think twice.think twice about: · I hope this latest attack will make people think twice about mindless violence towards ethnic minorities.think twice before doing something: · The heavy penalties are designed to make people think twice before committing a crime.
what you say to tell someone that you forgive them spoken say this when someone has said that they are sorry for something they did: · "Sorry I didn't phone you last week." "That's OK - I know how busy you've been."· "I must apologize for keeping you waiting so long." "That's all right."
spoken informal say this to tell someone that you do not blame them for something, and that they should not worry about it any more: · "I feel so bad about upsetting your plans.'' "Oh, forget it. it really doesn't matter.''
spoken say this when someone says they are sorry that they made a mistake or forgot something, and you want to tell them not to worry: · "Please forgive me for losing your book." "Oh, never mind. I have another copy."
spoken say this when someone says they are sorry, and you want to tell them politely that there is no need to be sorry: · "I'm sorry we had to cancel the party.'' "Oh, please don't give it another thought. It wasn't your fault that you were ill!''
spoken informal say this when you want to tell someone that you are not angry with them, even though they have upset you or you have quarrelled with them: · No hard feelings, Stu. You had every right to be angry with me.
to forgive someone to stop being angry with someone for something bad they have done, especially when they have upset you or done something unkind: · He's not the kind of person who is quick to forgive.· Please forgive me -- it was a complete accident.· Hugh found his wife's behaviour hard to forgive.forgive somebody for something: · He had lied to me, and I couldn't forgive him for that.forgive somebody something: · I could understand her being angry, but I'll still never forgive her the way she treated me afterwards.
to forgive a small fault such as carelessness, rudeness, lateness etc: · Excuse my brother if he talks too much, he's rather excitable.· I didn't realize this was a formal party, so I hope you can excuse my appearance.
formal to forgive someone for something that is not serious, such as impolite or bad-tempered behaviour: · Pardon the mess -- I got home late last night and didn't have time to clean up.pardon somebody for something: · I am so sorry about that, Mr Judd. Please pardon my daughter for her little outburst.
to forgive someone for something that happened in the past, usually a long time ago: · You two haven't said a word to each other for a year now. Don't you think it's time to forgive and forget?· Angela's father was not a man who found it easy to forgive and forget.
spoken to forgive someone for something bad they did to you in the past, and stop being unfriendly towards them: · Why don't we let bygones be bygones and forget about the whole thing?
what you say when you refuse to do something · "Can you come and help move these boxes?" "No, sorry, I'm busy."· "You're sick - you need to stay in bed." "No, I have to be at this meeting."
spoken use this to firmly refuse to do something and say that nothing will change your mind: · "Why don't you phone him and apologize.'' "No way -- I haven't done anything wrong!''· No way am I going to look after all three children on my own!· There's no way I'm going to put up with rudeness like that!
spoken use this to tell someone that there is no chance at all of you doing something: · "Maybe things will sort themselves out in time." "Forget it, the relationship's over."· As for the idea of going on holiday together, forget it!
British spoken use this when you think that what someone has asked you to do is stupid or dangerous: · "Are you coming to that lecture this evening?" "Not likely - there's free beer at the Queen's Arms tonight!"
British spoken that's final American spoken used after you have refused to do something, in order to show that you will not change your mind or discuss your decision: · I'm not coming, and that's flat. Now stop bothering me.· There's no way I'm helping Ted move again, and that's final.
to remember something very clearly · "Do you remember a guy called Casey?" "Sure, I remember him well."· It was a long, long time ago, but I remember it vividly.· What she remembered most vividly was the hopelessly sad expression in his eyes. remember something all too well/vividly (=remember something that you would prefer to forget) · These men remember all too well the horrors of the Korean War.
to remember the details about something extremely clearly, especially when it is not something that would usually stay in someone's memory: distinctly remember something: · I distinctly remember her dress. It was blue with a red belt.distinctly remember doing something: · I distinctly remember being told that my father was away on a long business trip.distinctly remember somebody doing something: · I distinctly remember him leaving the room at about 8.00 p.m.
if something is fresh in your mind , you remember it very clearly because it happened very recently or because it had a great effect on you: · The day war was declared is still fresh in my mind.· She wrote down the details of their conversation while they were still fresh in her mind.with something fresh in your mind: · It was going to be difficult forming a new relationship with the memory of Marian still fresh in his mind.
to remember clearly the sight, sound, feel etc of something: · I can still see his face when I told him I wanted a divorce.· I can still hear my mother even now, singing away in the kitchen.· The next morning, on his way to the office, he could still feel the touch of her lips on his.
especially spoken use this to say that you will remember something for a long time because it was very shocking, very enjoyable, very frightening etc: · I'll never forget the sight of him lying there in the hospital.· "I'm going to teach you a lesson you'll never forget," said father grimly.I'll never forget the first time/the day/the night etc: · I'll never forget the first time I ate sushi.· I'll never forget the day Linda told us she was gay.I will never forget how/what/who etc: · I'll never forget how he comforted me after my son died.
to remember something that happened a long time in the past so clearly that it seems to have happened very recently, especially because it had a great effect on you: · I remember sitting at that table and listening to him speak as if it were yesterday.· She remembers her husband being shot as if it were yesterday.
to clearly remember something, especially an experience from the past, by imagining that you are doing it again now: · In my dreams, I often relived my fears and thought I was being attacked.· It's about a woman who is forced to relive her past when she discovers her long-lost brother.· I have relived that game many times and I still don't know how I missed the goal.
if something such as an experience or event stays with you, you remember it for a very long time because it has such a great effect on you: · When a loved one dies, it stays with you - it doesn't just go away.stay with someone for a long time/for the rest of their life: · The memory of the incident stayed with him for a long time.· Growing up in the countryside, she developed a passion for horses that stayed with her for the rest of her life.
if an experience or event etc sticks in your mind , it is very difficult to forget: · That reminds me of another incident that sticks in my mind.· One picture of a young child especially stuck in my mind.· A trivial incident, perhaps, but one that has stuck in my mind.
if you are haunted by something, especially something that you are worried about or afraid of, you find it extremely difficult to forget it so you are always thinking about it: · She was still haunted by what happened in Barcelona, although she had left twenty years earlier.· All his life, Whitman was haunted by a sense of loss and loneliness.
to remember something that you must do or need to have · Did you remember your dictionary? · Remember, the examiner will expect you to demonstrate a knowledge of motorway driving too.remember to do something · Did you remember to lock the back door?· I hope Dean remembers to buy some stamps.remember (that) · Do you think Kim remembers that we're supposed to be there at 8?
to remember something you must do - use this especially when it seems likely that you will not remember something: · Don't worry, I won't forget.· Don't forget your keys.not forget to do something: · I hope she doesn't forget to water the plants.· You mustn't forget to switch that off when you've finished.not forget (that): · I might be home late, but I haven't forgotten that we're going out.don't forget to do something: · Don't forget to turn out the lights before you leave.
if you tell someone to be sure to do something, you want them to remember that it is important that they do it: be sure to do something: · Be sure to ring me when you get in.be sure and do something: · Be sure and let me know if you need anything.be sure (that): · Be sure that you make the effort to vote this year.· Be sure you have your driver's license and insurance ready to show the officer.
to make someone remember something that they must do to make someone remember something they must do or something they need to know: · I'd love to have lunch next Wednesday, but you'll have to remind me.remind somebody about something: · Pauline phoned to remind you about the party.remind somebody to do something: · Remind me to buy some batteries for my Walkman, OK?remind somebody (that): · I just want to remind you that your assignments must be completed by Friday.remind somebody how/what/when: · Write down a few notes to remind yourself what you want to say.that reminds me (=say this when someone says or does something that makes you remember to do something) spoken: · Oh that reminds me - I'm supposed to take Cheryl to the airport tomorrow.
a written note or something that someone says that reminds you about something you have forgotten or ignored, especially something that you must do: · The dentist's office sent you a reminder about your appointment next week.· Finally, a reminder that the school concert will be on December 17.
spoken say this to tell someone to remember something that you think they might forget: · Don't forget your keys.don't forget to do something: · Don't forget to mail that letter, will you?don't forget (that): · Don't forget that my mother's coming to visit this weekend.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY He’s someone who never forgets a face (=forgets who someone is). Give me your phone number before I forget (=forget to get it). Oh no, I’ve forgotten my wallet. If we can’t get any funding we might as well forget the whole thing. I forget the name of the street, but it’s the first on the left.COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES Sorry, I clean forgot (=completely forgot) your birthday. He didn’t look the sort of man to forgive and forget (=forgive someone and no longer think about it). The government hoped that their early mishandling of the crisis could be quietly forgotten.COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB
He’s someone who never forgets a face (=forgets who someone is). (=said when you have just remembered or been reminded about something) spoken Oh yes, I was forgetting she was pregnant.
Oh yes, I was forgetting she was pregnant. Give me your phone number before I forget (=forget to get it). American English (=completely forget) He meant to invite Monica, but he clean forgot.
He meant to invite Monica, but he clean forgot. Oh no, I’ve forgotten my wallet. If we can’t get any funding we might as well forget the whole thing. I forget the name of the street, but it’s the first on the left. (=forget to send a card or present)· Oh no! I forgot his birthday.
Sorry, I clean forgot (=completely forgot) your birthday. He didn’t look the sort of man to forgive and forget (=forgive someone and no longer think about it). (=behave in an impolite way)· Oh, I’m forgetting my manners. Let me introduce you to Suzanne.
· I must not forget to mention how kind he was to us.
· Forget the past and focus on the future.
The government hoped that their early mishandling of the crisis could be quietly forgotten.· This man with an interest in the murder everyone had forgotten about.· For a blissful three hours I completely forgot about Alistair Dodge.· Disposal of our domestic rubbish is something we tend to forget about once it's been picked up by the dust-cart.· Force yourself on people. Forget about your feelings, think positively.· He seemed to have forgotten about only letting me loose on water.· Richard realized that he would have to forget about electrical engineering, but he had no idea what else to major in.· The dress was put in a drawer, unfinished but not forgotten about.· But now what we have to do is forget about the past and build on the present.
· Although the village people had almost forgotten her trouble, she decided she could never be really happy in Marlott.· The sun was moving across the sky and we had almost forgotten to check our traps.· This assertion is so obvious now that its impact at the time is almost forgotten.· Oops, I almost forgot my disposable Earplanes.· I almost forgot about the exhibition.· He had almost forgotten the appointment.· She'd almost forgotten that the child was down there, closer to the intruder than she was.· It had been so long since she had seen snow she had almost forgotten about it.
· He'd been so busy that afternoon that he'd completely forgotten to call her.· For a blissful three hours I completely forgot about Alistair Dodge.· He completely forgot about young Mabel and at the end of the day went home to bed.· They completely forgot about the rest of the cast and concentrated on their lines.· I completely forgot my fears and rushed into his room.· Through the passage of time and their incurious nature, the townspeople had completely forgotten where the name came from.· But in this instance, comrade Preobrazhensky has completely forgotten about this fundamental methodological demand of Marxism.· Might as well, since he has apparently completely forgotten how to make a good movie.
· He hardly ever forgets to bring anything I might want.· Who that saw that day will ever forget it!· He remembered how they had first met - how could he ever forget?· But have you ever forgotten to turn off the headlights?· A language she once knew but had forgotten about, forgotten ever hearing, forgotten she could speak.· Would he ever forget that deranged look of hatred on her face, the violence of her attack on him?· How could either of us ever forget?
· He survived but had forgotten how to live.· He had not seen green forest in so long, he had forgotten how it could move him.· Have you forgotten how easy it is to delude yourself into believing you are in love?· He examined the intercom again, but seemed to have forgotten how it worked.· I think I forgot how to enjoy myself.· He does not forget how many outs there are, or who is on what base.· I must be precise here: the woman forgot how to hate him - the child feels it as keenly as ever.· Leroy had forgotten how to love and show affection and wanted me to teach him.
· I will never forget, the shop windows were dressed beautifully with mauve velvet.· I will never forget the joy of the wounded when they were brought into our lines.· What is important, though, is that we should never forget the Christmas message.· She never forgets the son she killed.· I shall never forget that moment.· The students will never forget these experiences, and they are learning academic skills in the context of use.· He has never forgotten that disastrous voyage.· He would never forget the agony he felt, as if something of himself had perished with the herd.
· He soon forgot it as the filming restarted.· They had a light syrupy taste, so addictive that she soon forgot her suffering. 2.· However, the crew helped us aboard and I soon forgot my fright when we were given bananas to eat.· Once cheered, contest winners are usually soon forgotten.· However nerves and hangover were soon forgotten as we headed out into the middle of the river and the adrenaline started pumping.· But he soon forgot his discomfort when he examined the many interesting rocks.· And in any case, what Lucy may have done was surely not so dreadful and will be soon forgotten.· He soon forgot about his dreams of Kee and the graveyard.
NOUN· We paused now and again at some hostelry and, on one occasion, a Benedictine monastery, I forget its name.· I was wondering if you know this guy Wilkinson, I forget his first name.· It's so easy to forget that the name of the game is survival.· Don't forget to leave your name, address and a daytime telephone number!· He forgets your name. 2.· I had forgotten his name, but it comes back to me now.
VERB· This means I will forgive and forget quickly.· Surely she could forgive, if not forget.· Thousands of survivors were released and sent back to their villages amid exhortations to the nation to forgive and forget.· How could he forgive or forget such a slight?· He has not been able to forgive or to forget.· Three years on it's impossible to forgive and forget.· Hong Kong manufacturers depend almost entirely on export markets, many of which have been less willing to forgive and forget.
· Do not let them quite forget Momma and Papa if possible.· Percy Mosely would not let him forget this anytime soon.· But let us not forget that he gave his life in an act of selfless devotion to the race.· It lets me forget how miserable my life is.· He was an F and the other boys never let him forget this.· Then again, let us nor forget, it is considered de rigueur to keep a few foreigners around.
· He seemed to have forgotten about only letting me loose on water.· Opening the door, Old Chao seemed to have forgotten his irritation.· Rainbow seems to have forgotten my existence.· He examined the intercom again, but seemed to have forgotten how it worked.· I always seem to forget where they are.· It seemed to have forgotten its tail.· You humans seem to forget it's you that have all the fun.· According to an unnamed correspondent for the New York Tribune: All sense of manhood seemed to be forgotten....
· I just try to forget it all now, but I might have to go back.· If you are an experienced computer programmer, please try to forget your coding experience, because no programming is required.· During this time I tried hard to forget my feeling for him.· She herself married a fine gentleman and tried to forget her time with Blue Beard.· I tried to forget my loneliness and fear.· I spent the next couple of weeks trying to forget Ling Lo and her problems.· I went back to my room, trying to forget about my brother.· Perhaps he tried to forget that the sanctuaries existed up there in the jungle, and put them out of his mind.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► I’ll never forget something► aren’t you forgetting ...?/haven’t you forgotten ...?► and don’t you forget it!► not forgetting something
- Veronica was worried that she might forget herself and confess her true feelings.
- When I was growing up, I was told to forget myself and pay attention to others.
- As if he had forgotten himself, Wasswa hurriedly got up and draped a towel around the President's shoulders.
- But this, to some extent, was to forget himself.
- He forgets himself in the feeding.
- He could get caught up in the story, so to speak, and little by little begin to forget himself.
- His aim, in fact, as he freely admitted, was to forget himself in his work.
- I gave a good class: there is nothing like teaching well for making one forget oneself and one's petty troubles.
- Infuriated, she forgot herself sufficiently to reach out and prod his knee.
- You have taught me to forget myself by demeaning yourself to be free to a poor servant.
- Don't forget that my mother's coming to visit this weekend.
- Don't forget that the car needs gas.
- Don't forget to mail that letter, will you?
- Don't forget your keys.
- Don't forget, we have to be there by five o'clock.
- "Here, let me pay you back." "No, just forget it."
- "I feel so bad about upsetting your plans.'' "Oh, forget it. it really doesn't matter.''
- "What'd you say?" "Nothing, just forget it."
- As for the idea of going on holiday together, forget it!
- I'm not buying you that bike, so just forget it.
- If you're in a bad mood, forget it ; don't try and train your dog then.
- But if you're thinking of driving, forget it.
- I just try to forget it all now, but I might have to go back.
- Musically - forget it, but the spot effects are great and make up for the poor acoustic tones.
- Now, how could we ever have forgotten it?
- She forgot it was midnight and this was a respectable couple.
- What happens before disaster strikes and long after journalists have forgotten it matters even more than rescue and relief.
- Who that saw that day will ever forget it!
- You humans seem to forget it's you that have all the fun.
- How old is Kristen again? I forget.
- You know that guy we met last week - I forget his name.
- A head of lettuce, a couple of potatoes, I forget what else.
- And never shall I forget those whispered words.
- Even I forgot to note it.
- I suddenly realise I haven't remembered the others for hours. I forgot their supper yesterday.
- Will I forget how to speak to the audience?
- Yes, when I get through talking to this Yes, listen a couple of things I thought about before I forget.
WORD FAMILYadjectiveforgetfulforgettable ≠ unforgettableadverbforgetfullyunforgettablynounforgetfulnessverbforget
1facts/information [intransitive, transitive] to not remember facts, information, or people or things from the past: I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name. I know you told me, but I forgot. What happened that day will never be forgotten.forget about Karl says he forgot about our date. She forgot all about their anniversary.forget (that) I forgot that there’s a speed limit here.forget how/what/when/why etc How can you forget where you’ve parked the car? He’s someone who never forgets a face (=forgets who someone is).I was forgetting ... (=said when you have just remembered or been reminded about something) spoken Oh yes, I was forgetting she was pregnant.2something you must do [intransitive, transitive] to not remember to do something that you should do: ‘Did you remember to post that letter?’ ‘Oh, sorry, I forgot.’ Give me your phone number before I forget (=forget to get it).forget to do something Someone’s forgotten to turn off their headlights.clean forget American English (=completely forget) He meant to invite Monica, but he clean forgot.3leave something somewhere [transitive] to not remember to bring something that you need with youforget your keys/money/cigarettes etc Oh no, I’ve forgotten my wallet.4stop thinking about [intransitive, transitive] to stop thinking or worrying about someone or something: Forget him, he’s not worth it. At my age, I think I can forget fashion.forget (that) After a while you’ll forget you’re wearing contact lenses.forget about I’ll never be able to forget about the accident.5not care about [intransitive, transitive] to not care about or give attention to someone or something any longerforget about Don’t forget about your old friends when you go off to college, okay? You can’t afford to forget your relationship with your husband.6stop a plan [intransitive, transitive] to stop planning to do something because it is no longer possible or sensibleforget about We’ll have to forget about going on holiday. If we can’t get any funding we might as well forget the whole thing.7not forgetting something British English used to add something to a list of things you have mentioned: You’ll have to pay for the packaging and transportation costs, not forgetting airport taxes.8forget yourself a)to do something stupid or embarrassing, especially by losing control of your emotions: Lisa forgot herself and reached out to touch his knee. b)British English to become so involved in something that you do not think about or notice anything else SYN lose yourselfforget yourself in something Often he would forget himself in his work for hours.SPOKEN PHRASES9don’t forget a)used to remind someone to do something: We need bread, milk, and eggs – don’t forget.don’t forget to do something Don’t forget to lock up when you leave. b)used to remind someone about an important fact or detail that they should considerdon’t forget (that) But don’t forget that you have to pay interest on the loan. Don’t forget, I’ll be home late tonight. c)used to remind someone to take something with them: Don’t forget your sandwiches.10forget it a)used to tell someone that something is not important and they do not need to worry about it: ‘Sorry I didn’t phone.’ ‘Forget it.’ b)used to tell someone to stop asking or talking about something, because it is annoying you: I’m not coming with you, so forget it. c) (also forget that! American English) used to tell someone that you refuse to do something or that it will be impossible to do something: ‘Can you lend me $10.’ ‘Forget it, no way.’ If you’re thinking of getting Roy to help, you can forget it! d)used when someone asks you what you just said and you do not want to repeat it: ‘What did you say?’ ‘ Nothing, just forget it.’11I’ll never forget something used to say that you will always remember something from the past, because it was sad, funny, enjoyable etc: I’ll never forget the look on his face when he opened the door.12aren’t you forgetting ...?/haven’t you forgotten ...? used to remind someone about something, often humorously: Aren’t you forgetting that you’re already married?13I forget used to say that you cannot remember a particular detail about somethingI forget what/where/how etc I forget what he said exactly but it was very rude.I forget the name/details etc I forget the name of the street, but it’s the first on the left.14and don’t you forget it! used to remind someone angrily about an important fact that should make them behave differently: I’m the boss around here, and don’t you forget it!THESAURUSforget to not remember something or someone: · I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your name.· It was an experience she would never forget.don’t remember/can’t remember used when saying that you have forgotten something: · I know I needed something at the shops, but I can’t remember what it was.have no recollection of something formal to not remember anything about something that happened in the past: · He told the jury that he had no recollection of the accident.slip your mind especially spoken if something that you must do slips your mind, you forget to do it because you are busy thinking about other things: · I’m sorry I didn’t call. There was so much going on that it completely slipped my mind.it goes in one ear and out the other spoken used to say that someone forgets what you tell them very quickly because they are not interested or do not listen properly: · With kids you have to say everything twice. It all goes in one ear and out the other.my mind goes blank especially spoken used to say that you are suddenly unable to remember something at a time when you need it: · I was so nervous that my mind went blank as soon as they asked me a question.to try to forget somethingforget to deliberately try not to think about something sad or unpleasant: · After the divorce came through, I just wanted to forget about it all.put something out of your mind to make yourself stop thinking about something that stops you concentrating or makes you angry, sad, or nervous: · When I’m competing I put everything out of my mind and concentrate on winning.put something behind you to stop thinking about something sad or unpleasant that happened to you in the past, so that you can continue with your life and be happy: · It can take a long time to put a traumatic experience like that behind you.take/keep your mind off something to do something that helps you stop thinking about a problem for a short time: · Sara went out for a walk to try and take her mind off things.blot something out to forget an unpleasant memory or thought, by deliberately stopping yourself from thinking about it: · He started drinking heavily in an effort to blot out the thought of what he had done.· I wanted to blot out the events of the previous day.shut somebody/something out to deliberately forget someone or something and not let them be part of your thoughts and feelings: · The marriage was a disaster, and her husband shut her out of his life completely.