Cool MateI give you my word vs Pledge
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
I give you my word
Top 2,000 (common)
Pledge
FormalTop 2,000 (common)C1verb
Most formal: Pledge
| I give you my word | Pledge | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //aɪ ɡɪv jʊ maɪ wɜːd//🇺🇸 //aɪ ɡɪv jʊ maɪ wɜrd// | 🇬🇧 //plɛdʒ//🇺🇸 //plɛdʒ// |
| Meaning | I promise or assure you something. | To make a serious promise or commitment. |
| Example | I give you my word that I will finish the project on time. | She decided to pledge her support to the charity event. |
| Register | Neutral | Formal |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | - | C1 |
| Part of speech | verb | |
| Collocations | give you my word, keep my word, my word is my bond, words of assurance, promise my word | pledge allegiance, pledge support, pledge a donation |
| Antonyms | - | renounce, disavow, withdraw |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'I'll give you my word' - not always necessary to use 'I'll'., Thinking it only means a literal word rather than a promise., Using it in overly formal contexts where simpler phrases are better. | Confused with 'pledged' vs 'pledge' as different tenses., Omitting the object after the verb., Using 'pledge' when referring to a general promise instead of a formal commitment. |
| Usage notes | Use when you want to make a sincere promise. It can be informal in casual contexts but appropriate in serious situations too. | Typically used in formal contexts, such as during ceremonies or official statements. Avoid in casual conversations. |
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Frequently asked questions: I give you my word vs Pledge
What's the difference between I give you my word and Pledge?
I give you my word: I promise or assure you something. Pledge: To make a serious promise or commitment.
Which is more formal: I give you my word and Pledge?
Pledge is the most formal of these.
Can you show an example of each?
I give you my word: I give you my word that I will finish the project on time. Pledge: She decided to pledge her support to the charity event.
Can I use I give you my word and Pledge interchangeably?
Not always. I give you my word and Pledge are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.