forever
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /fərˈɛvə/
US
- /fərˈɛvər/
Description
- for all time
- always
- without end
"Forever" is more than just a very long time. It suggests something with no end. We often use it when talking about love, promises, or things we hope will last. You might promise to love someone "forever" or wish a beautiful moment could stay "forever." It can also be used in an exaggerated way, as when a hard task feels like it took "forever" to finish. It is a strong word that points to the idea of endless time.
The idea of "forever" seems simple at first. At its heart, it means lasting or existing for all time, with no end. But we do not always use it in a literal way. Very often, we use "forever" to make a feeling stronger, to show that something lasts a very long time, or to express deep commitment. Think about the phrase "happily ever after"—it carries the feeling of something that never ends.
You might say, "This song will be stuck in my head forever," meaning it feels like it will never go away. Or perhaps you would tell a friend, "I will be your friend forever," which carries the weight of a lifelong loyalty. It is common to use "forever" when talking about things we cherish—relationships, memories, or ideals.
However, "forever" can also express frustration with something that seems to drag on endlessly. "We waited forever for the bus!" does not mean it literally took an eternity, but rather a frustratingly long time.
In stories, poems, and songs, "forever" often carries a deeper meaning. It can point to love that lasts, memories that stay alive, or the hope that something important will never fade. In that way, the word is not only about time. It is also about emotion, belief, and the human wish for something permanent.
So whether it is a heartfelt promise, an exasperated sigh, or a poetic exploration of eternity, "forever" speaks to our deepest desires for permanence and meaning in a world defined by change.
Examples
- 1
Friendship
They promised to stay friends forever.
- 2
Life plans
I don't want to live in this small town forever.
- 3
Delay
The bus took forever to arrive.
Phrase
take forever
take a very long time
- 4
Life change
One careless mistake can change a life forever.
- 5
Gratitude
I will be forever grateful for your support.
- 6
Annoying habit
She's forever checking her phone during dinner.
Pattern
be forever doing X
do it very often, often in an annoying way
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- foreveradverb