verb

verzeihen

forgive

Jemandem nicht mehr böse sein und einen Fehler ruhen lassen.

The German word "verzeihen" is a verb that means "to forgive" or "to pardon." It combines the prefix "ver-" which often denotes a change or transition, with "zeihen," a less common verb that means "to accuse" or "to charge." As a whole, "verzeihn" specifically pertains to forgiving someone—essentially moving beyond a point of accusation or grievance.

Similar words in German include "entschuldigen" (to excuse), "pardonieren" (to pardon, somewhat dated or less common), and "vergeben" (to forgive, also used in a broader context).

The nuance that differentiates these terms:

entschuldigen often involves absolving someone for a fault or an error in a more casual, everyday context.
vergeben can be used similarly to "verzeihen" but is sometimes used in spiritual or more formal contexts.
verzeihen refers explicitly to the emotional or personal aspect of forgiveness, delivering a sense of emotional release or clearing of blame.