What does foregoes mean?
Foregoes is a verb that means to give up or renounce something, especially a right or privilege, in order to do something else. This can be a deliberate choice, such as a company deciding to forego profits in order to invest in new technology. It can also be a necessary action, such as a person having to forego a meal in order to afford rent. The word has a slightly formal tone and is often used in business or formal writing. It is a useful word to know when describing situations where something must be given up in order to achieve a greater goal. In addition to its literal meaning, foregoes can also imply a sense of sacrifice or compromise. For example, a person may have to forego their favorite hobby in order to focus on their career. Overall, foregoes is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts to describe situations where something must be given up in order to achieve a greater goal.
verb
To give up or renounce something, especially a right or privilege, in order to do something else.
- 1. To give up or renounce something, especially a right or privilege, in order to do something else.
"The company had to forego its profits in order to invest in new technology."
"The company had to forego its profits in order to invest in new technology."
"A person may have to forego their favorite hobby in order to focus on their career."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of foregoes
The word foregoes comes from the Old English words 'for' and 'gān', which mean 'before' and 'go', respectively. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century and has a slightly formal tone.
Usage notes
Foregoes is a formal word and is often used in business or formal writing. It can be used in a variety of contexts to describe situations where something must be given up in order to achieve a greater goal. It is a useful word to know when describing situations where sacrifice or compromise is necessary.