A2verb1K

UK/["/ˈprɒmɪs/","/ˈprɒmɪsɪz/","/ˈprɒmɪst/","/ˈprɒmɪsɪŋ/"]/US/["/ˈprɑːmɪs/","/ˈprɑːmɪsɪz/","/ˈprɑːmɪst/","/ˈprɑːmɪsɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Promise

In simple words: A commitment to do something or not do something.

Promise in a sentence

  • I promise to help you with your homework.
  • She promised her friend that she would come to the party.
  • He made a promise to always be honest.
  • They broke their promise about meeting us at six.
  • I promise I will call you tomorrow.

How to use Promise

Use 'promise' when you want to express a vow or assurance. Common in both spoken and written contexts, but avoid in formal legal documents.

Grammar pattern

promise + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'promise' as a 'pro-miss' — someone saying they'll not miss what they committed to.

Related words

Collocations with Promise

Opposites of Promise

Common mistakes with Promise

  • Confusing 'promise' with 'vow' or 'pledge' in terms of strength.
  • Using 'promise' without an object (e.g., 'I promise' should specify what).
  • Misusing in the past tense (e.g., 'I promised' without a follow-up).

Compare Promise with Commitment, Assurance, Guarantee, Pledge, Vow

Promise appears in

Promise in other languages

More words like Promise

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Frequently asked questions about Promise

What does Promise mean?

A commitment to do something or not do something.

What is the definition of Promise?

to tell somebody that you will definitely do or not do something, or that something will definitely happen

How do you use Promise in a sentence?

I promise to help you with your homework.

Can you give another example of Promise?

She promised her friend that she would come to the party.

What are synonyms for Promise?

Common alternatives include commitment, assurance, guarantee, pledge, vow.

What is the opposite of Promise?

Opposite meanings include lie, break, betray.

What words go with Promise?

It commonly pairs with faithfully, solemnly, initially, can, cannot, seem to, to, as promised, I can’t promise anything.

What are common mistakes when using Promise?

Confusing 'promise' with 'vow' or 'pledge' in terms of strength. Using 'promise' without an object (e.g., 'I promise' should specify what). Misusing in the past tense (e.g., 'I promised' without a follow-up).

How do you pronounce Promise?

US: /["/ˈprɑːmɪs/","/ˈprɑːmɪsɪz/","/ˈprɑːmɪst/","/ˈprɑːmɪsɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈprɒmɪs/","/ˈprɒmɪsɪz/","/ˈprɒmɪst/","/ˈprɒmɪsɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Promise?

Use 'promise' when you want to express a vow or assurance. Common in both spoken and written contexts, but avoid in formal legal documents.

What CEFR level is Promise?

"Promise" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.