Definition

A declaration or assurance that one will do (or not do) something; a commitment made to another person. Unlike casual swearing, a promise is typically a personal commitment rather than a legal oath.

Example Usage

I promise to call you as soon as I land in New York.

Origin

From Old French 'promesse,' derived from Latin 'promittere' meaning 'to send forward, commit'

Fun Fact

A promise's value depends heavily on the promiser's reputation; breaking promises repeatedly damages trust in all future commitments

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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