a declaration or assurance that one will do something or refrain from doing something, a thing that gives hope that something good or positive will happen or be the case

hold someone to their promise, a promise is a promise, no promises

promise land, promise oneself, promise the moon

Formal and Informal Expressions of promise

In different contexts, you can replace 'promise' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'pledge, commitment' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'word, assurance' is a commonplace synonym.

promise: Explore its Definition & Usage

promise Definition

1a declaration or assurance that one will do something or refrain from doing something
2a thing that gives hope that something good or positive will happen or be the case

Using promise: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "promise" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He made a promise to always be there for her.
Example
The company's promise of quality products was not fulfilled.
Example
I can't make any promises, but I'll try my best.
Example
She kept her promise to visit her grandmother every week.

promise Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for promise

Antonyms for promise

Idioms Using promise

hold someone to their promise
to remind or force someone to keep their promise
Example
I'm going to hold you to your promise to help me move next weekend.
a promise is a promise
a statement emphasizing the importance of keeping one's word
Example
You promised to take me to the park today, and a promise is a promise.
no promises
a statement indicating that one cannot guarantee a particular outcome
Example
I'll try my best to finish the project on time, but no promises.

Phrases with promise

promise land
a place or situation that is highly desirable or idealized
Example
For many immigrants, America was the promise land where they could start a new life.
promise oneself
to make a personal commitment to do something
Example
After failing the exam, she promised herself to study harder next time.
promise the moon
to make extravagant promises that are unlikely to be fulfilled
Example
The politician promised the moon during his campaign, but failed to deliver on most of his pledges.

Origins of promise

from Old French 'promesse', from Latin 'promissum', neuter past participle of 'promittere', meaning 'send forth, foretell, promise'

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Summary: promise in Brief

The term 'promise' [ˈprɒmɪs] refers to a declaration or assurance that one will do something or refrain from doing something, or a thing that gives hope that something good or positive will happen. It can be used in contexts ranging from personal commitments to corporate marketing, as in 'The company's promise of quality products was not fulfilled.' Phrases like 'promise land' and idioms like 'hold someone to their promise' further illustrate the concept of promise.