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Swore Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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swore

[swษ”r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Swore is the simple past tense of swear. It can signify an act of making a solemn promise or an oath. This form is often used to indicate that someone has committed to a statement or an action with strong intention. In various contexts, swore also implies the act of using profane language or cursing. The use of 'swore' can carry emotional weight depending on its application, particularly in informal speech.

Synonyms

cursed, pledged, promised, vowed.

Examples of usage

  • He swore to tell the truth in court.
  • She swore at the driver who cut her off.
  • They swore loyalty to their leader.
  • He never swore he would keep secrets.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, swearing is linked to sacred oaths taken during important life events, such as marriage or court trials.
  • Certain expressions or phrases, known as swearing oaths, vary across different traditions, often reflecting cultural values.

Literature

  • Swearing oaths is a common theme in literature, symbolizing character integrity or conflict, as in Shakespeare's plays.
  • Authors use characters swearing to reveal inner thoughts and feelings, especially in moments of heightened emotion.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that swearing can have psychological benefits, helping to relieve pain or express strong emotions.
  • The act of swearing can build camaraderie and strengthen bonds among groups, as it often creates a sense of identity.

Legal Aspects

  • In legal contexts, swearing an oath is crucial for witnesses in court, emphasizing the truthfulness of their testimony.
  • The phrase 'under oath' highlights the legal implications of swearing, where lying can result in severe penalties.

Origin of 'swore'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'swore' comes from the Old English 'sweoran', which means 'to take an oath'.
  • In ancient cultures, swearing an oath often involved a ritual to emphasize the seriousness of the promise.
  • The root of the word relates to concepts of speaking and declaring something with authority.

The word 'swore' originates from the Old English word 'sweoran,' which means 'to swear or to take an oath.' Its roots can be traced back to Proto-Germanic '*swฤ“ran' and further to Proto-Indo-European '*swer-', which means 'to speak or to say.' Over time, the term evolved to encompass not only the act of making promises or oaths but also the act of using strong language. The meaning of 'swear' has diversified in modern usage, especially in informal contexts where it often refers to profanity. The transition from the Old English form to contemporary English saw influences from various dialects and regions, shaping the modern perception of swearing as an act that can convey emotion, frustration, or intensity.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,786 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.