promise
From Old French 'promesse', from Latin 'promissum' meaning 'to send forth' or 'to put forth.'
A declaration or assurance that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen, often implying a commitment or obligation. The full concept of a promise as an abstract idea of future commitment or potential, especially in a broader or less specific context, may not always map directly to a single equivalent word in Spanish, which might require a more descriptive phrase to capture the full nuance.
| plural |
|---|
| promises |
- He made a promise to help me move house on Saturday. — A commitment to assist.
- She broke her promise to call me every day. — An assurance that was not fulfilled.
- The politician's promises often sound good but are rarely kept. — Declarations of future action by a public figure.
- There is great promise in this new technology for solving environmental issues. — An indication of potential or future success.
To declare or assure someone that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen. It involves giving one's word and taking on an obligation. The act of promising, particularly its social and cultural implications regarding trust and obligation, can have nuances in English that are not always captured by a single, direct translation in Spanish.
| gerund | past |
|---|---|
| promising | promised |
- I promise I'll be there on time for the meeting. — Giving an assurance of punctuality.
- She promised to keep the secret safe. — Declaring an intention to maintain confidentiality.
- The company promises quick delivery for all online orders. — Assuring customers of timely service.
- He promised his mother he would study hard for his exams. — Making a commitment to a parent.