Oath: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or legal settings where a person is committing to tell the truth or to fulfill a duty. It often has a solemn or serious tone.

• He took an oath to serve and protect his country
• She swore an oath in the courtroom

Used in everyday situations to indicate a personal commitment or guarantee. It can be formal or informal and is less solemn than oath or vow.

• I promise to help you with your homework
• She made a promise to visit her grandparents every month

Often used in personal contexts, particularly in ceremonies like weddings, where one makes a deep and serious commitment. It can also be used to express a firm intention or determination.

• They exchanged vows during the wedding ceremony
• He vowed to never lie again

Used when making a serious commitment or guarantee, often in a public or official capacity. It's also common in contexts of fundraising or support.

• The organization made a pledge to support the victims of the disaster
• He pledged to donate a portion of his earnings to charity

An oath can also mean a casual exclamation or a swear word, considered less formal but still serious in tone.

• In moments of extreme frustration, he occasionally uttered an oath.
• Her angry oath shocked everyone in the meeting.

A curse is a wish for something bad to happen to someone or something, often connected with superstition. It can also mean profanity or vulgar language meant to insult.

• She believed that the old witch had placed a curse on her family.
• In anger, he shouted a curse at the driver who cut him off.

A swear word is a rude or offensive word that people use when they are angry or upset. It is similar to an expletive but more focused on vulgarity.

• He muttered a swear word under his breath when he realized he was late.
• Using swear words in professional settings is generally frowned upon.

An expletive is a word or phrase, often offensive or vulgar, used to express emotion such as anger or frustration. It is generally used informally.

• He let out an expletive when he hit his thumb with the hammer.
• The movie was filled with expletives, making it unsuitable for young children.

An oath is typically used in formal settings, such as in a court of law or when someone is taking a position of office. It implies a solemn promise and is often made in the presence of others.

• She took an oath to tell the truth in court.
• After winning the election, he took an oath of office.

An affirmation is often used when confirming a truth or belief. It has a non-religious connotation and is suitable in legal contexts for people who prefer not to swear religious oaths.

• The witness gave an affirmation instead of swearing on the Bible.
• Her daily affirmation helps her stay positive.

A pledge is a more general term for a commitment or promise. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts and often implies a promise of future action or behavior.

• The students made a pledge to keep the school clean.
• He made a pledge to donate to the charity every month.

A vow usually refers to a solemn promise, particularly in a religious or marital context. It carries a strong sense of commitment and is often made publicly.

• They exchanged vows during the wedding ceremony.
• The monk took a vow of silence.