Forgivable

Understandable enough to be met with forgiveness.

Reach for it when describing a fault understandable enough to release resentment

The novice's forgivable error was corrected without embarrassment.

• everyday

  minor

  small scale is the supported fact

  not when A minor error can still be unforgivable if deliberate.

• warm

  understandable

  circumstances explain why the mistake occurred

  not when Understanding a fault does not mean excusing its harm.

• professional

  excusable

  a valid reason reduces blame

  not when Excusable can dismiss the need for repair.

• formal

  pardonable

  a fault merits formal mercy

  not when Pardonable sounds legal or religious in ordinary conversation.

• literary

  venial

  the offense is minor rather than grave

  not when Venial is rare and carries religious classification.

• unforgivable
• inexcusable
• unpardonable

• forgivable mistake

  The novice made a forgivable mistake.

• entirely forgivable

  Her confusion was entirely forgivable.

• seem forgivable

  The delay may seem forgivable once the emergency is known.