A2verb1K

Promise

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

Definition

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

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

Examples

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.

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

faithfully
solemnly
initially
can
cannot
seem to
to
as promised
I can’t promise anything

Synonyms

commitment
assurance
guarantee
pledge
vow

Antonyms

lie
break
betray

Common mistakes

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).