Some people forgive and forget easily — and then there are those who remember every little detail. In the world of astrology, certain zodiac signs are known for their long memory when it comes to hurt feelings or betrayal. Whether it’s a friend who let them down or a partner who crossed the line, these signs don’t just brush things under the rug. Let’s explore the top three zodiac signs that hold grudges the longest and understand what makes them so emotionally intense when it comes to forgiveness.

Why Do Some Zodiac Signs Hold Grudges More Than Others?

Astrology tells us that personality traits are heavily influenced by the elements and ruling planets of each sign. Water signs, for example, are deeply emotional and intuitive, which can make wounds cut deeper. Earth signs, on the other hand, have a strong sense of justice and can struggle to move on if something feels unresolved.

The three signs that top the grudge-holding list share one thing in common: they never forget how you made them feel. Let’s dive into who they are and why they struggle to let go.

Scorpio: Do They Ever Really Forgive?

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) is the undisputed king or queen of grudges. This water sign is deeply emotional, fiercely loyal, and ruled by Pluto — the planet of transformation, power, and intensity.

What Makes Scorpio So Grudge-Prone?

• Emotional Depth: Scorpios don’t take things lightly. If you’ve betrayed them, chances are they’ve replayed the moment in their mind a thousand times.
• Trust Issues: It takes a lot for a Scorpio to trust someone. Once that trust is broken, the wall goes up — and it rarely comes back down.
• Desire for Justice: Scorpios aren’t necessarily vengeful in a petty way, but they want things to feel balanced. If they feel wronged, they’ll hold on until they feel the emotional scales have been evened out.

How Long Does a Scorpio Hold a Grudge?

Forever… or until you truly prove your loyalty again. But even then, they may forgive — yet never forget. If you hurt a Scorpio, expect to spend serious time rebuilding that bridge.

Taurus: Why Can’t They Just Let It Go?

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty — but don’t let that fool you. This Earth sign is known for being stubborn to the core. Once you’ve done them wrong, they’ll carry that memory with them like a badge.

Why Is Taurus So Reluctant to Forgive?

• Fixed Nature: Taurus is a fixed sign, meaning they don’t like change. Once they’ve formed an opinion about you — especially if it’s negative — it’s hard to shift.
• Deep Loyalty: Taureans give their loyalty fully, and when that’s betrayed, they feel deeply disappointed. It’s not just about the incident — it’s about the principle.
• Need for Security: They crave emotional and practical stability. Someone who causes emotional chaos threatens their sense of peace, making it hard for them to forgive and move forward.

How Do You Know a Taurus Is Holding a Grudge?

They may go completely silent. Taurus doesn’t usually start drama, but you’ll notice the cold shoulder, subtle distance, and their refusal to reengage. The grudge might not be loud — but it’s definitely there.

Cancer: Do They Ever Stop Feeling Hurt?

Cancer (June 21 – July 22), another water sign, is incredibly sensitive and ruled by the moon — the celestial body that governs emotions. Cancers feel everything intensely, and when someone hurts them, it can stick with them for a lifetime.

Why Does Cancer Take Everything So Personally?

• Emotional Memory: Cancer has an uncanny ability to recall not just what happened — but how it felt. That emotional memory lingers long after the event is over.
• Protective Shell: When hurt, Cancer retreats into their shell and holds onto the pain. They don’t always express it outwardly, but the emotional wound can stay raw for a long time.
• Fear of Vulnerability: Being vulnerable is tough for Cancer. Once they’ve let someone in and gotten hurt, it feels like a betrayal of their deepest trust.

How Can You Make Things Right With a Cancer?

Time, patience, and genuine emotion. Cancer needs to feel that you understand what you did wrong and that it won’t happen again. They don’t forgive easily, but they do have the capacity to love again if the apology feels authentic.

Can These Zodiac Signs Learn to Let Go?

Yes — but on their terms. The key with Scorpio, Taurus, and Cancer is emotional security and sincerity. These signs value meaningful connections, so if you show up honestly, take accountability, and consistently act with integrity, there’s a chance to mend even the deepest rift.

That said, don’t expect overnight forgiveness. These signs don’t believe in fake apologies or quick fixes. If they’re going to forgive, it’ll be because they’ve seen a genuine effort — and because they believe you’ve grown from the experience.

What Can You Learn From These Grudge-Holding Signs?

There’s actually wisdom in their ways. Holding grudges isn’t always about bitterness — sometimes, it’s about self-protection and valuing emotional honesty. These signs remind us that trust is precious, and once broken, it’s hard to put back together.

So if you’ve wronged a Scorpio, Taurus, or Cancer, know that it’s going to take time. But if you truly care about the relationship, showing up consistently with empathy might just be the key to finally letting go of the past — together.