Forsake
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3
Deep Betrayal
Forsaking someone often implies a deep sense of betrayal, especially if there's a strong relationship. When he forsook his family, they felt deeply hurt and betrayed.
Pro Tip 2/3
Strong Commitment
It's usually used for abandoning serious commitments or responsibilities, not trivial ones. The captain wouldn't forsake his crew, even in the face of danger.
Pro Tip 3/3
Negative Emotion
The word carries a heavy emotional weight, suggesting sadness and somberness. Spectators were shocked when the athlete forsook the match for unknown reasons.