Pledge: meaning, definitions and examples

Used often in formal or official contexts when someone makes a serious promise or agrees to do something. It can also imply a public declaration.

• She made a pledge to donate a portion of her income to charity.
• The company pledged to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% over the next decade.

A general term for when someone assures another person that they will do something or that something will happen. This word is commonly used in everyday situations and is versatile.

• She made a promise to call her friend every week.
• I promise I'll be there on time.

Used to describe a strong dedication or obligation someone has towards a cause, activity, or person. This term can be used in both personal and professional situations.

• His commitment to his job is unparalleled.
• They showed great commitment to the community by volunteering every weekend.

Often used in solemn or serious contexts, such as in ceremonies or when making deep personal commitments. It implies a stronger, more formal promise.

• During the wedding ceremony, they exchanged vows to love and support each other.
• He vowed to never repeat the same mistakes.

Use this word when making a serious promise or commitment, often seen in official or formal settings.

• He pledged to donate $5000 to the school's building fund.
• The company has pledged to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% over the next decade.

This can be a broader term often used in both financial and general contexts to mean something given or pledged to ensure the fulfillment of an obligation.

• He provided additional security for the loan.
• The company put up its stocks as security for the loan.

Refers to a formal assurance, often given in business or legal situations, that certain conditions will be fulfilled.

• The manufacturer provides a three-year guarantee on all of its products.
• She demanded a written guarantee that the work would be completed on time.

This is used in financial contexts when referring to an asset that a borrower offers to a lender to secure a loan.

• He used his car as collateral to secure the bank loan.
• The bank requires collateral to grant you a business loan.

A pledge is often used in formal or serious situations where a person makes a strong commitment or guarantee to do something. It can also be used in legal contexts.

• He made a pledge to donate money to the charity every year.
• The organization requires a pledge of loyalty from all its members.

A promise is used in casual or semi-formal situations when someone says they will do something or assures someone about an action or event in the future.

• I promise to be there at 6 PM.
• She promised to finish her homework before dinner.

A vow is used in very solemn and formal settings, often related to lifelong commitments or important promises. It is common in religious or ceremonial contexts such as weddings.

• They exchanged vows during the wedding ceremony.
• He took a vow of silence for a month.

To swear generally involves making a serious commitment or declaration, often involving an oath. It is also used to stress honesty or truthfulness in a statement, but it can carry a more intense or emotional connotation. It sometimes has a negative tone when overly stressed.

• I swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth in court.
• I swear I didn't mean to hurt you.