What does “Promise is debt.” mean?

"Promise is debt" means making a promise creates an obligation to fulfill it. Breaking a promise can damage trust and relationships, and can have consequences. It is important to be careful about making promises and to follow through on them when possible.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I will definitely finish the project on time. Promise is debt. I take my commitments seriously.

Example

I know I promised to help you move, and I will. Promise is debt. I won't let you down.

Example

I'm sorry I couldn't make it to the meeting. Promise is debt. I had an emergency that I couldn't avoid

Is “Promise is debt.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Promise is debt.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Promise is debt.” effectively in context?

You can use "Promise is debt" to emphasize the importance of keeping one's promises and fulfilling obligations. It serves as a reminder that making a promise creates a sense of responsibility and trust, and breaking a promise can have negative consequences. For example, if a friend asks for a favor, you might say, 'Sure, I'll help you move. Promise is debt.'

1Personal Relationships
After forgetting their anniversary last year, he made a promise to never forget again. Promise is debt. This year, he planned a surprise romantic dinner.
2Work
During a job interview, the candidate promised to deliver high-quality work. Promise is debt. They were hired and consistently exceeded expectations.
3Apology
After missing an important deadline, she apologized to her team and promised to improve. Promise is debt. She implemented better time management strategies and met all subsequent deadlines.

Similar phrases to “Promise is debt.”:

A man is only as good as his word

A person's character and integrity are judged by their ability to keep their promises

Example

He always keeps his promises. A man is only as good as his word.

Actions speak louder than words

What someone does is more important than what they say they will do

Example

She promised to help, but her actions spoke louder than words when she didn't show up.

Put your money where your mouth is

To back up one's words with actions or financial commitment

Example

If you believe in your idea, put your money where your mouth is and invest in it.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Promise is debt.” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Promise is debt" is unknown.

Is “Promise is debt.” common in everyday conversation?

"Promise is debt" is not a commonly used phrase in everyday conversation. It is more often used in formal or literary contexts, such as speeches, writing, or discussions about ethics and responsibility.

What tone does “Promise is debt.” have?

"Promise is debt" conveys a serious and responsible tone. It emphasizes the importance of keeping one's word and fulfilling commitments.

Can “Promise is debt.” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Promise is debt" is a formal phrase that is typically used in more serious or professional settings. It may not be commonly used in casual conversations or informal situations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

"Promise is debt" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I promised to help you, and promise is debt.' However, in certain contexts, it can be understood and used alone to imply the importance of keeping promises.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

a promise is a promise
one's word is one's bond
keep your word
honor your commitments
fulfill your promises

Antonyms

break a promise
fail to deliver
not follow through
betray trust
be unreliable