Promise: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'promise' in everyday situations where someone assures they will do something or that something will happen. It is neutral in tone and can be used both formally and informally.

• I promise to help you with your project tomorrow.
• She made a promise to her friend to keep the secret.

Use 'pledge' in formal contexts, often when making a solemn promise or showing a serious intention to act. It is frequently used in official, ceremonial, or charitable settings.

• She made a pledge to donate a portion of her salary to charity.
• The mayor took the pledge to serve the community faithfully.

Use 'commitment' when discussing a more formal or serious obligation, often implying a long-term effort or attachment. It is commonly used in professional, personal, and social contexts.

• He has a strong commitment to his work and always delivers on time.
• Their commitment to each other was evident in their actions.

Use 'vow' in situations involving a deep and often public commitment, typically related to personal promises or oaths. It carries a sense of solemnity and formality.

• The couple exchanged vows during the wedding ceremony.
• He vowed to never lie again after breaking his friend's trust.

Promise is best used when expressing a commitment or assurance that something will happen or be done. It can also refer to the potential for success in an individual or a thing.

• She made a promise to visit her grandmother every weekend
• His skills in programming show great promise for a future career

Potential should be used to refer to the inherent ability or capacity for growth, development, or future success in someone or something.

• She has the potential to become an excellent musician with more practice
• The project's potential for success is evident

Prospect is commonly used to describe the possibility or likelihood of some future event occurring, often with a positive connotation.

• The prospect of traveling to Japan excites her
• There are good job prospects in the tech industry

Likelihood is appropriate when discussing the probability or chance of something happening.

• The likelihood of rain tomorrow is high according to the weather forecast
• There is a likelihood that he will get the job based on his qualifications

Used when making a personal declaration to do something or ensure something happens; can be formal or informal.

• I promise to help you with your project.
• She promised to be there on time.

Often used in a formal and serious manner, such as in commitments to causes, donations, or vows.

• I pledge to donate $500 to the charity.
• They pledged to uphold the highest standards of integrity.

Typically used in formal situations or contracts, referring to the dedication to a task, person, or decision.

• I commit to finishing this project by the deadline.
• They are committed to providing the best service.

Used to assure that something will happen or that a product/service will meet certain standards; often found in business contexts.

• We guarantee that your package will arrive within three days.
• The product comes with a two-year guarantee.