formal 5K

Pact

UK //pækt// US //pækt// Pronunciation

Definition

A formal agreement or promise between two or more parties.

Listen to definition

In simple words: An agreement between two or more parties.

Examples

• The two countries signed a pact to ensure peace.
• They made a pact to support each other through thick and thin.
• The environmental pact aims to reduce pollution levels.
• After much discussion, they reached a pact on the project terms.
• The leaders entered into a historic pact for cooperation.
• The students created a pact to study regularly together.

Usage notes

Used primarily in formal contexts; avoid in casual conversation. Often involves serious agreements or commitments.

Grammar pattern

make + a pact

Memory hint

Think of 'pack' as a group making a serious promise together.

Collocations

• sign a pact
• enter into a pact
• make a pact
• breach a pact
• renew a pact

Synonyms

• agreement
• treaty
• contract
• compact
• deal

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'pack' which refers to a group or a bundle.
• Used 'pact' when a less formal term like 'agreement' is more appropriate.
• Assuming 'pact' is a verb; it is a noun.