Promised Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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promised

[หˆprษ’mษชst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

keeping a pledge

to assure someone that one will definitely do, give or arrange something; undertake or declare that something will happen

Synonyms

assure, commit, pledge, vow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
promised

Used when someone has told another person that they will definitely do something or that something will happen. It often reflects a personal commitment.

  • She promised to call me back later.
  • He promised his daughter a trip to the zoo.
pledge

Used in formal or solemn contexts when someone makes a serious promise or agreement. Often involves a formal declaration.

  • The company pledged to reduce its carbon footprint.
  • She pledged a donation to the charity.
vow

Used in very serious or formal contexts, often involving a deep, personal promise or a solemn oath. It is particularly common in religious or ceremonial contexts.

  • The couple vowed to be faithful to each other.
  • He vowed never to lie again.
commit

Used when someone is making a firm decision to do something, often involving a strong dedication. It implies a level of obligation or being bound to a course of action.

  • They decided to commit to the new project.
  • He committed himself to helping the community.
assure

Used when someone wants to remove doubt or anxiety from another person by telling them something confidently. Often involves providing comfort or confidence.

  • I assure you that the project will be completed on time.
  • She assured him that everything was going to be fine.

Examples of usage

  • He promised to take her out for dinner
  • I promise I'll be there on time
  • She promised to help him with his homework
Context #2 | Verb

predicting

to indicate that something will happen; guarantee that something will be done

Synonyms

forecast, foretell, guarantee, predict.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
promised

Used when someone has assured others about something happening in the future, often implying a personal commitment.

  • She promised to help him with his homework.
  • He promised that he would never lie again.
foretell

Used in a literary or mystical context to predict something, often implying a sense of certainty and often involving future events.

  • The old sage foretold the coming of a great storm.
  • Legends say that he could foretell the future.
forecast

Commonly used in weather and economic contexts to discuss predictions based on data and analysis.

  • The weather forecast predicts rain for tomorrow.
  • Experts forecast a rise in unemployment rates next year.
predict

Used broadly in various contexts to talk about stating what will happen in the future, based on reasoning, experience, or data.

  • No one can predict when the next earthquake will occur.
  • He predicted that the team would win the championship.
guarantee

Implying a formal and often legal assurance that something will happen or is true, often used in commercial contexts.

  • The company guarantees that the product will last for at least one year.
  • You have my guarantee that the project will be completed on time.

Examples of usage

  • The dark clouds promised rain
  • His hard work promised success

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Keeping promises boosts trustworthiness and strengthens relationships, providing emotional security.
  • Breaking promises can lead to feelings of disappointment and can damage relationships, highlighting the importance of integrity.
  • Research shows that people who keep their promises often experience higher levels of self-esteem and satisfaction.

Literature

  • Promises often play a critical role in storylines, where characters' fates can depend on their ability to keep their word.
  • Classic literature, like Shakespeareโ€™s plays, often features promises that lead to unforeseen consequences, adding depth to the narrative.
  • In modern novels, promises can serve as pivotal moments that drive character development and plot twists.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, making a promise is seen as a solemn vow that can involve rituals, like weddings or oaths.
  • The concept of a promise varies across cultures, with some societies placing more emphasis on verbal agreements than written ones.
  • Promises are integral in many spiritual and religious contexts, symbolizing commitment to a higher power or philosophy.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and movies often revolve around promises, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and hope.
  • Famous quotes about promises, like โ€˜With great power comes great responsibilityโ€™, emphasize the weight of oneโ€™s word.
  • Popular series often use the idea of promises to create tension, such as characters who must decide whether to fulfill their commitments or follow their desires.

Origin of 'promised'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'promised' comes from the Latin word 'promissum', which means 'to send forth' or 'to assure'.
  • In Old French, 'promettre' meant 'to promise', emphasizing the commitment aspect of the word.
  • The root of 'promise' is linked to the concept of trust and reliability, showing how words can create bonds.

The word 'promise' originated from the Latin word 'promittere', which means 'send forth, foretell'. The concept of making a promise has been an integral part of human communication and relationships throughout history. Promises are a way to build trust, create expectations, and demonstrate commitment.


See also: promise, promiser, promises, promising, promisor.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,844, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.