promise

/ˈprɒmɪs/
noun, verbBeginner
general

a declaration that something will or will not happen

He promised to call me tomorrow.

He committed to calling me the next day.

💡

Can be verbal or written, formal or informal.

general

an indication of future success or potential

The new product shows great promise.

The new product has strong potential for success.

💡

Used to describe potential or likelihood of success.

Collocations

make a promiseto commit to doing somethingbreak a promiseto fail to keep a commitmentkeep a promiseto fulfill a commitment

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

promise the moonidiom
to make an unrealistic or exaggerated promise
promise yourselfphrase
to make a personal commitment

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

The verb 'promise' is often followed by 'to' + verb (e.g., 'I promise to help').

Gold Rule

Keeping Promises

Promises are serious commitments; breaking them can damage trust.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'promise,' from Old French 'promesse,' from Latin 'promissum,' neuter past participle of 'promittere' (to promise), from 'pro-' (forward) + 'mittere' (to send).

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it is often followed by 'to' + verb (e.g., 'promise to help').

Word Breakdown

pro-
forward
prefix
+
-mittere
to send
root
English Dictionary