Phrase: Forget doing something
Meaning: Used to di*iss an idea as impractical, impossible, or not worth considering. It implies that the action is futile or unnecessary.
Structure:
Forget + verb-ing
"Forget asking for a raise—the company is broke."
"Forget finding parking downtown; let’s take the train."
Key Usage Notes:
1. Informal Tone: Common in spoken English, often expressing resignation or frustration.
"Forget finishing this project tonight; let’s sleep and start fresh tomorrow."
2. Di*issive/Negative Connotation: Suggests the action is pointless. Use cautiously to avoid sounding rude.
3. Not the Same as "Forget to do":
❌ "I forgot calling her" → Incorrect (should be "I forgot to call her" for an uncompleted action).
✅ "Forget calling her—she never answers." → Correct (di*issing the idea of calling).
Examples:
1. Futility:
"Forget ordering pizza—the delivery app crashed."
2. Impossibility:
"Forget winning the lottery; odds are one in a million."
3. Advising Against:
"Forget wearing heels; we’ll be walking all day."
Alternatives:
"Don’t bother [verb-ing]..."
"Don’t bother arguing with him."
"There’s no point in [verb-ing]..."
"There’s no point in waiting—the show’s canceled."
Common Mistakes:
Confusing with "Forget to do":
❌ "I forgot doing the laundry." → Incorrect (implies you forgot that you did it).
✅ "I forgot to do the laundry." → Correct (you didn’t do it).
Use forget doing only when di*issing an idea, not for literal memory lapses!
Let me know if you need more examples!
