pledge

[plej]

pledge Definition

  • 1a solemn promise or undertaking
  • 2a thing that is given as security for the fulfillment of a contract or the payment of a debt and is liable to forfeiture in the event of failure

Using pledge: Examples

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

  • Example

    He made a pledge to donate $1,000 to charity.

  • Example

    The company has taken a pledge to reduce its carbon footprint.

  • Example

    She gave her pledge of allegiance to the flag.

  • Example

    The bank required him to put up his house as a pledge.

pledge Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for pledge

Idioms Using pledge

  • to make a solemn promise to abstain from alcohol or drugs

    Example

    After struggling with addiction, he decided to take the pledge and become sober.

  • honour one's pledge

    to fulfill a promise or commitment

    Example

    She always honours her pledge to volunteer at the local shelter every weekend.

  • a decision to believe in something despite a lack of evidence or certainty

    Example

    Investing in the startup was a leap of faith, but it paid off when the company became successful.

Phrases with pledge

  • a promise not to reveal a secret

    Example

    I gave my pledge of silence to my friend and won't tell anyone about her personal life.

  • a campaign to raise money for a charity or organization by soliciting pledges from donors

    Example

    The public radio station's pledge drive was successful in raising enough funds to continue broadcasting.

  • a pin worn by members of a fraternity or sorority to signify their affiliation and commitment to the organization

    Example

    He proudly wore his pledge pin after being accepted into the fraternity.

Origins of pledge

from Old French 'plege', meaning 'security, guarantee'

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Summary: pledge in Brief

The term 'pledge' [plej] refers to a solemn promise or undertaking, often involving a commitment to fulfill an obligation or a guarantee of security. It can be used in phrases like 'pledge of silence' or 'pledge drive,' and idioms like 'take the pledge,' which means to promise to abstain from alcohol or drugs. 'Pledge' also extends to financial contexts, such as 'The bank required him to put up his house as a pledge.'

How do native speakers use this expression?