Definition of promise in English:

promise

noun ˈprɒmɪsˈprɑməs

1A declaration or assurance that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen.
what happened to all those firm promises of support?
with infinitive I did not keep my promise to go home early
Example sentencesExamples
- We will not hand over our consciences in return for a hollow promise of safety.
- Later, corruption and broken election promises are almost certain.
- All the promises, all the assurances, were broken.
- It has failed to receive firm guarantees or promises from either side.
- Educated and ambitious, they are lured here by the promise of material acquisition.
- With the clock ticking, regeneration bosses have reiterated promises of support to help inexperienced organisations draw up strong applications to access the funds.
- A solemn promise was also made at the end.
- Unfortunately, the international community does not always back up their generous promises of help with firm commitments.
- Despite promises of support for people who say they cannot afford to pay tuition fees, the Government has still been accused of pricing higher education out of many people's reach.
- Like many others, he was lured away by promises of a richer life.
- The promise of the reward was too much of an enticement for the migrant workers to resist.
- He ruined her with his empty, broken promises and his declarations of imaginary friendship.
- Vague promises of unspecified future salvation just don't cut it in today's market.
- The people nurse deep alienation with the political system and cynicism about the democratic process due to their sad experience of broken promises and forgotten assurances.
- Most important, information exchange in the private sector is regulated by contract law, and firms that break their promises can pay a price.
- However, they insist that the government's promises have been broken.
- We have been hearing the same promises and assurances for more than 10 years now.
- Who is going to be taken in by promises or assurances in election time?
- Having to see him and listen to him make empty promises makes me so sad.
- The Government has angered tenant farmers by not keeping a pre-election promise to introduce a retirement scheme.
Synonyms
word of honour, word, assurance, pledge, vow, guarantee, oath, bond, undertaking, agreement, commitment, contract, covenant, compact
1. 1.1in singular An indication that something is likely to occur.
  dawn came with the promise of fine weather
  Example sentencesExamples
  Today sees the conclusion of the regatta with three races and the promise of improving weather.
  It holds within it the promise of peace and security, and he smiles.
  Every indication points to the promise of continued improvements in the cost and performance of storage, depending on the technology involved.
  Six weeks ago, a flurry of announcements saw the promise of peace dangle tantalisingly before some of Africa's most wretched countries.
  The promise of a fine indoor season had been curtailed during a training break in Florida.
  For children like these, the promise of peace in Angola may come too late.
  The dialogue of diplomacy then carries the threat of war rather than the promise of peace.
  Following a fine and warm weekend and with the promise of more sunshine to come, hundreds of people thronged York Railway Station.
  Day three started with the promise of very fine weather but we were met with a delivery of a sudden shower as we followed a narrow dirt trail.
  The promise of prosperity and peace that heralded the end of the Cold War is a distant memory.
  Synonyms
  indication, hint, suggestion, sign
2mass noun The quality of potential excellence.
he showed great promise even as a junior officer
Example sentencesExamples
- If it's obvious from your resume that you have significant promise and potential, chances are you will receive an invitation to interview for the job.
- His early death was regretted since his music shows unfulfilled promise.
- On the contrary, molecular medicine holds remarkable promise for improving quality of life and delivering health care more equitably.
- New approaches show promise, potentially bringing a proof of the Riemann hypothesis within reach.
- Although she had troubles on bars and beam, she showed great promise for the future.
- Although they all start out with great promise and potential, they invariably end up a disappointment and we hear nothing more about them.
- The majority of childhood prodigies never fulfill their early promise.
- In a statement to the US Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, quoted by Reuters, Pardew described the country as a nation of great promise and potential.
- Polley is packed with promise and potential.
- Most consolidation plays failed to realize both their promise and potential.
- Despite the tremendous potential and promise of genomics, it is very difficult to predict when its benefits for health will be realised.
- He was a natural leader, and he began his reign with great promise and potential.
- Of course, the flip side of such promise is the potential for humiliation.
- Narratives of progress and development are rooted deeply in the potential and promise of the West's best ideals and traditions.
- To them, he is indicative of a crucial historical phase in Brazil's development and he embodies their country's unfulfilled promise and wasted potential.
- Continuing research in this field holds great promise for the future.
- Merger mania during the 1996-2001 period failed to realize much of its promise and potential.
- For him, this odd little satellite traveling around an evocative solar star represents promise and potential.
- Finally, the model emphasizes leadership like never before, demanding that effective leaders reach their promise and potential.
- He's erratic and foul-prone, but he shows too much promise and low-post scoring potential to be ignored.
Synonyms
potential, ability, aptitude, capability, capacity, potentiality
talent, flair

verb ˈprɒmɪsˈprɑməs

1reporting verb Assure someone that one will definitely do something or that something will happen.
with infinitive he promised to forward my mail
with clause she made him promise that he wouldn't do it again
with direct speech ‘I'll bring it straight back,’ she promised
with two objects he promised her the job
Example sentencesExamples
- After an assessment, these advisors promise to deliver strategic suggestions to move your career to the next level.
- Bosses have promised to find alternative jobs within the company for as many people as possible.
- He pointed out that many governments have promised to abolish it but nothing has happened to date.
- The government promises to keep up its side of the bargain only if the defendant cooperates.
- An inspector arrived later and promised to have the job done last Friday.
- The government has already promised to have 25,000 officers in place by 2008.
- Magazines base their ad rates on how many eyes they can promise to deliver.
- The Labour manifesto also promised a review of the postal services act.
- Politicians promise what they want, not what they can do.
- I'm not promising we'll win it, but I can assure all the supporters that we're determined to give it our best shot.
- For the unemployed, he is promising to create 200,000 jobs a year.
- The Federal Government is promising to ‘reduce significantly’ the problem of family benefit overpayments.
- He had left his job and had promised in his resignation letter to repay all the money.
- The president promised to abolish emergency laws and create an electoral system where all parties have a chance to participate.
- The reduction in my expenses in a certain way was something that I definitely promised to do if I got this money.
- I definitely don't promise to stop hoping that you'll bury the hatchet already.
- You'll notice I'm not suggesting anyone should promise to lose weight, spend more time with loved ones, write a book or phone mother more often.
- He had also promised not to tell his parents.
- It has therefore been necessary to redefine what was meant by the job they promised to complete.
- "He won't hurt you, " Ally promised with a smile.
Synonyms
give one's word, swear, pledge, vow, undertake, guarantee, assure, contract, engage, give an undertaking, give an assurance, commit oneself, bind oneself, cross one's heart (and hope to die), swear/take an oath, covenant
archaic plight
1. 1.1archaic with object Pledge (someone, especially a woman) to marry someone else; betroth.
  I've been promised to him for years
2with object Give good grounds for expecting (a particular occurrence)
forthcoming concerts promise a feast of music
with infinitive it promised to be a night that all would remember
Example sentencesExamples
- The crackdown is not aimed at organised firework shows and tonight promises a feast of spectacular events.
- For the profession it promises the most radical change they have faced, with talk of 24-hour cover, extended working hours and new grades of consultant.
- NW Chamber Orchestra's first concert promises an exciting new season
- Even more than the transfer of power at the top of the party, this change promises fundamental transformation of the political order itself.
- The election is already promising to be a turning point in Italian politics.
- This play promises a surprise finale that will shock not only the audience, but the actors as well.
- Last year a record number of 20,000 spectators enjoyed the show and this year's ‘Green is Clean’ theme promises an even better event.
- Mr Holland said that he was looking forward to what promised to be the best festival yet.
- Each merger promised to deliver bigger and better results for both customers and shareholders.
- The tandoori food festival promises the most delectable of your favourite cuisine.
- A three-day extravaganza, this festival promises something for everyone.
- The forthcoming concert promises to be entertaining and varied, with music from all styles and genres.
- So with that kind of forward power it promises to be an afternoon's hard work ahead.
Synonyms
indicate, give an/every indication of, lead one to expect, give good grounds for expecting, point to, denote, signify, be a sign of, be evidence of, show signs of, hint at, suggest, give hope of, hold out hopes of, bespeak, presage, be a presage of, augur, herald, bode, foreshadow, portend
literary betoken, foretoken, forebode
rare harbinger
1. 2.1 Announce (something) as being expected to happen.
  forecasters were promising a record snowfall in Boston
  with two objects we're promised more winter weather tonight
  Example sentencesExamples
  Forecasters were promising a record snowfall in Boston, Massachusetts, and up to a metre of snow on the Cape Cod peninsula, southeast of Boston.
  Cuba is on the bounce-back this year, with Virgin Atlantic promising direct flights to Havana in the summer.
  The forecast for the weekend promises warmer weather, with temperatures expected to reach 10 degrees today and 12 degrees tomorrow.
  He recently went on record to promise a frank report from the 12-year inquiry into collusion between security forces and loyalist paramilitaries.
  It's gone now, but the weather promises future freezing.
2. 2.2promise oneself Contemplate the pleasant expectation of.
  he tidied up the sitting room, promising himself an early night
  Example sentencesExamples
  As an adult, now is the time to go on that diet you've been promising yourself since January.
  Definitely flagging now, Penny and I stagger on to the Park Hyatt Hotel where we have promised ourselves a glass or two of wine to celebrate our mammoth and epic journey.
  Now is the time to lose all that weight you've been promising yourself.
  We enjoyed it so much that we promised ourselves that we would come back.
  You seem not quite ready yet, but promise yourself to expect something interesting in the future.
  I keep promising myself that I'll learn British Sign Language so that I can speak with my hands.
  It looks like I'll be able to justify having the small roast-potato on Christmas Day that I've been promising myself for months.
  I had paid but little attention to the itinerary promising myself I would just sit back, enjoy, and let others do the organising!
  I've been promising myself I will, soon, some day, for the last 12 years.
  We had, though, always promised ourselves that we'd do something ‘special’ for the 25th.
  Eventually, the idea goes, it won't feel like you're following a program at all, but rather, instinctively performing the good habits you've always promised yourself you'd develop.
  Have you been promising yourself that you will take up something new to get you out during the summer, but then somehow you always manage to end up in the pub?
  So we've promised ourselves a trip to the garden centre tomorrow, with the intention of getting a couple of trays of cheap and cheerful annuals to fill out the empty bits and to bridge us over until the perennials catch up.
  Just before the drawing the lots, she took a lot of time going through the showroom, floor by floor, promising herself that she would be back on a shopping spree.
  We promised ourselves one of these devices as soon as my computer is established in its new home, wherever and whatever that is, but I reckoned it was a good time to buy it now, for all sorts of reasons.
  I've been promising myself for weeks that I will get out and get the garden tidied up ready for the winter but then I make excuses and do something else instead.
  For a few months I kept promising myself I would ‘investigate’ the ghostly phenomenon and nail the suspect, but never got down to it for some reason or the other.
  You will have promised yourself and possibly others that you are going to get fit, eat better, give up something or change the way you deal with some element of life.
  This might be the moment to get that new phone number you've been promising yourself, and then neglect to pass on the details to me.
  Not having a cigarette when you've promised yourself one leaves your body feeling orphaned and betrayed.

Phrases

I promise (or I promise you)

informal Used for emphasis, especially so as to reassure, encourage, or threaten someone.
oh, I'm not joking, I promise you
Example sentencesExamples
- This is not an appeal to your green listeners, Amy, I promise you.
- No, I promise it's not the makings of a classical joke, as my postman can testify.
- No, there will be no risk of me getting in the way, I promise you.
- Now it may seem selfish, but once you have holidayed in this stunningly beautiful country, I promise you'll be loath to share its secrets with anyone.
- The exercise part is so simple, I promise you, you'll want to do it everyday, and I've never put that in print before.
- Not the best body language to display, I promise you.
- You'll never watch Jeremy Paxman's on-screen performances in quite the same way again, I promise you.
- I'm not one of those apathetic stay-at-home voters that the Labour Party is so worried about, I promise you.
- So I promise you, you're not going to hear any naughty words from him.
- If you want to threaten me, I promise you that no member of your local will work here for the next 60 years.

on a promise

informal Confidently assured of something, especially of having sexual intercourse.
a shop where Tom and I are on a promise with the girls serving there
Example sentencesExamples
- My husband thought he was on a promise on his first date with me.

promise (someone) the earth (or moon)

Make extravagant promises to someone that are unlikely to be fulfilled.
interactive technology titillates, promises the earth but delivers nothing
Example sentencesExamples
- Each and every single person you encounter promises you the moon, the stars and perfect love.
- We have a council that promises the earth but provides road calming and roundabouts.
- The people to avoid are the ones that are promising you the earth and you know there's nothing behind it.
- Do something for them before we get another party promising the earth and getting elected at your, and our, expense.
- The director, who declined to be named, said some start out by promising the earth, but once the workers are in the door, bosses have the freedom to dictate the terms of their employment.
- Having been promised the moon, we wound up dealing with polluted water, smudgy air, declining heath and income disparities of the worst kind.
- I wouldn't lay down on that thing even if you promised me the moon.
- With only a few days remaining there will be higher temptations by many people to lie by promising them the moon.
- At the same time he was promising me the moon, he was making plans to see her!
- While some parties are talking about Muslim rights, others are promising them the moon.

promises, promises

informal Used to indicate that the speaker is sceptical about someone's stated intention to do something.
Example sentencesExamples
- When it's there I will say thank you very much but I have got to the stage where it just seems like promises, promises.

Derivatives

promiser

noun

The Internet mavens who you say promised access to everything must have been latecomers and certainly were not the first promisers.
Example sentencesExamples
- He was a whiner as a government critic and a reckless promiser; in 1954, without consulting colleagues, he suddenly promised to abolish the means test on age pensions.
- Similarly, if a promise to do an act is an attempt to make an audience believe that the promiser will do the act, then to break a promise is for a promiser to make false a belief that the promiser created.

Origin

Late Middle English: from Latin promissum 'something promised', neuter past participle of promittere 'put forth, promise', from pro- 'forward' + mittere 'send'.

Definition of promise in US English:

promise

nounˈpräməsˈprɑməs

1A declaration or assurance that one will do a particular thing or that a particular thing will happen.
what happened to all those firm promises of support?
with clause he took my fax number with the promise that he would send me a drawing
with infinitive I did not keep my promise to go home early
Example sentencesExamples
- Despite promises of support for people who say they cannot afford to pay tuition fees, the Government has still been accused of pricing higher education out of many people's reach.
- We will not hand over our consciences in return for a hollow promise of safety.
- Vague promises of unspecified future salvation just don't cut it in today's market.
- We have been hearing the same promises and assurances for more than 10 years now.
- Who is going to be taken in by promises or assurances in election time?
- The promise of the reward was too much of an enticement for the migrant workers to resist.
- The Government has angered tenant farmers by not keeping a pre-election promise to introduce a retirement scheme.
- Later, corruption and broken election promises are almost certain.
- With the clock ticking, regeneration bosses have reiterated promises of support to help inexperienced organisations draw up strong applications to access the funds.
- Having to see him and listen to him make empty promises makes me so sad.
- Most important, information exchange in the private sector is regulated by contract law, and firms that break their promises can pay a price.
- Like many others, he was lured away by promises of a richer life.
- A solemn promise was also made at the end.
- However, they insist that the government's promises have been broken.
- It has failed to receive firm guarantees or promises from either side.
- All the promises, all the assurances, were broken.
- He ruined her with his empty, broken promises and his declarations of imaginary friendship.
- Unfortunately, the international community does not always back up their generous promises of help with firm commitments.
- The people nurse deep alienation with the political system and cynicism about the democratic process due to their sad experience of broken promises and forgotten assurances.
- Educated and ambitious, they are lured here by the promise of material acquisition.
Synonyms
word of honour, word, assurance, pledge, vow, guarantee, oath, bond, undertaking, agreement, commitment, contract, covenant, compact
1. 1.1 The quality of potential excellence.
  he showed great promise even as a junior officer
  Example sentencesExamples
  His early death was regretted since his music shows unfulfilled promise.
  He was a natural leader, and he began his reign with great promise and potential.
  Although she had troubles on bars and beam, she showed great promise for the future.
  Continuing research in this field holds great promise for the future.
  Despite the tremendous potential and promise of genomics, it is very difficult to predict when its benefits for health will be realised.
  Merger mania during the 1996-2001 period failed to realize much of its promise and potential.
  To them, he is indicative of a crucial historical phase in Brazil's development and he embodies their country's unfulfilled promise and wasted potential.
  New approaches show promise, potentially bringing a proof of the Riemann hypothesis within reach.
  Of course, the flip side of such promise is the potential for humiliation.
  In a statement to the US Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, quoted by Reuters, Pardew described the country as a nation of great promise and potential.
  On the contrary, molecular medicine holds remarkable promise for improving quality of life and delivering health care more equitably.
  For him, this odd little satellite traveling around an evocative solar star represents promise and potential.
  Most consolidation plays failed to realize both their promise and potential.
  Although they all start out with great promise and potential, they invariably end up a disappointment and we hear nothing more about them.
  Finally, the model emphasizes leadership like never before, demanding that effective leaders reach their promise and potential.
  The majority of childhood prodigies never fulfill their early promise.
  He's erratic and foul-prone, but he shows too much promise and low-post scoring potential to be ignored.
  Narratives of progress and development are rooted deeply in the potential and promise of the West's best ideals and traditions.
  Polley is packed with promise and potential.
  If it's obvious from your resume that you have significant promise and potential, chances are you will receive an invitation to interview for the job.
  Synonyms
  potential, ability, aptitude, capability, capacity, potentiality
2. 1.2in singular An indication that something specified is expected or likely to occur.
  the promise of peace
  Example sentencesExamples
  Six weeks ago, a flurry of announcements saw the promise of peace dangle tantalisingly before some of Africa's most wretched countries.
  Every indication points to the promise of continued improvements in the cost and performance of storage, depending on the technology involved.
  It holds within it the promise of peace and security, and he smiles.
  The dialogue of diplomacy then carries the threat of war rather than the promise of peace.
  Today sees the conclusion of the regatta with three races and the promise of improving weather.
  Following a fine and warm weekend and with the promise of more sunshine to come, hundreds of people thronged York Railway Station.
  The promise of a fine indoor season had been curtailed during a training break in Florida.
  The promise of prosperity and peace that heralded the end of the Cold War is a distant memory.
  Day three started with the promise of very fine weather but we were met with a delivery of a sudden shower as we followed a narrow dirt trail.
  For children like these, the promise of peace in Angola may come too late.
  Synonyms
  indication, hint, suggestion, sign

verbˈpräməsˈprɑməs

1reporting verb Assure someone that one will definitely do, give, or arrange something; undertake or declare that something will happen.
with infinitive he promised to forward my mail
with clause she made him promise that he wouldn't do it again
with direct speech “I'll bring it right back,” she promised
with two objects he promised her the job
Example sentencesExamples
- You'll notice I'm not suggesting anyone should promise to lose weight, spend more time with loved ones, write a book or phone mother more often.
- The Labour manifesto also promised a review of the postal services act.
- He had left his job and had promised in his resignation letter to repay all the money.
- After an assessment, these advisors promise to deliver strategic suggestions to move your career to the next level.
- I definitely don't promise to stop hoping that you'll bury the hatchet already.
- Magazines base their ad rates on how many eyes they can promise to deliver.
- Politicians promise what they want, not what they can do.
- He had also promised not to tell his parents.
- It has therefore been necessary to redefine what was meant by the job they promised to complete.
- The Federal Government is promising to ‘reduce significantly’ the problem of family benefit overpayments.
- The reduction in my expenses in a certain way was something that I definitely promised to do if I got this money.
- I'm not promising we'll win it, but I can assure all the supporters that we're determined to give it our best shot.
- "He won't hurt you, " Ally promised with a smile.
- The president promised to abolish emergency laws and create an electoral system where all parties have a chance to participate.
- Bosses have promised to find alternative jobs within the company for as many people as possible.
- For the unemployed, he is promising to create 200,000 jobs a year.
- An inspector arrived later and promised to have the job done last Friday.
- The government promises to keep up its side of the bargain only if the defendant cooperates.
- The government has already promised to have 25,000 officers in place by 2008.
- He pointed out that many governments have promised to abolish it but nothing has happened to date.
Synonyms
give one's word, swear, pledge, vow, undertake, guarantee, assure, contract, engage, give an undertaking, give an assurance, commit oneself, bind oneself, cross one's heart, cross one's heart and hope to die, swear an oath, take an oath, covenant
1. 1.1usually be promisedarchaic with object Pledge (someone, especially a woman) to marry someone else; betroth.
  I've been promised to him for years
2with object Give good grounds for expecting (a particular occurrence or situation)
forthcoming concerts promise a feast of music from around the world
with infinitive it promised to be a night that all present would long remember
Example sentencesExamples
- Last year a record number of 20,000 spectators enjoyed the show and this year's ‘Green is Clean’ theme promises an even better event.
- The tandoori food festival promises the most delectable of your favourite cuisine.
- This play promises a surprise finale that will shock not only the audience, but the actors as well.
- Mr Holland said that he was looking forward to what promised to be the best festival yet.
- The crackdown is not aimed at organised firework shows and tonight promises a feast of spectacular events.
- The election is already promising to be a turning point in Italian politics.
- The forthcoming concert promises to be entertaining and varied, with music from all styles and genres.
- For the profession it promises the most radical change they have faced, with talk of 24-hour cover, extended working hours and new grades of consultant.
- Even more than the transfer of power at the top of the party, this change promises fundamental transformation of the political order itself.
- So with that kind of forward power it promises to be an afternoon's hard work ahead.
- A three-day extravaganza, this festival promises something for everyone.
- NW Chamber Orchestra's first concert promises an exciting new season
- Each merger promised to deliver bigger and better results for both customers and shareholders.
Synonyms
indicate, give an indication of, give every indication of, lead one to expect, give good grounds for expecting, point to, denote, signify, be a sign of, be evidence of, show signs of, hint at, suggest, give hope of, hold out hopes of, bespeak, presage, be a presage of, augur, herald, bode, foreshadow, portend
1. 2.1 (of a person, publication, institution, etc.) announce (something) as being expected to happen.
  with two objects we're promised more winter weather tonight
  in its pre-Christmas trading statement it promised record results
  Example sentencesExamples
  Cuba is on the bounce-back this year, with Virgin Atlantic promising direct flights to Havana in the summer.
  It's gone now, but the weather promises future freezing.
  The forecast for the weekend promises warmer weather, with temperatures expected to reach 10 degrees today and 12 degrees tomorrow.
  He recently went on record to promise a frank report from the 12-year inquiry into collusion between security forces and loyalist paramilitaries.
  Forecasters were promising a record snowfall in Boston, Massachusetts, and up to a metre of snow on the Cape Cod peninsula, southeast of Boston.
2. 2.2promise oneself Contemplate the pleasant expectation of.
  he tidied up the room, promising himself an early night
  Example sentencesExamples
  So we've promised ourselves a trip to the garden centre tomorrow, with the intention of getting a couple of trays of cheap and cheerful annuals to fill out the empty bits and to bridge us over until the perennials catch up.
  We had, though, always promised ourselves that we'd do something ‘special’ for the 25th.
  You will have promised yourself and possibly others that you are going to get fit, eat better, give up something or change the way you deal with some element of life.
  Have you been promising yourself that you will take up something new to get you out during the summer, but then somehow you always manage to end up in the pub?
  Now is the time to lose all that weight you've been promising yourself.
  You seem not quite ready yet, but promise yourself to expect something interesting in the future.
  We promised ourselves one of these devices as soon as my computer is established in its new home, wherever and whatever that is, but I reckoned it was a good time to buy it now, for all sorts of reasons.
  This might be the moment to get that new phone number you've been promising yourself, and then neglect to pass on the details to me.
  I keep promising myself that I'll learn British Sign Language so that I can speak with my hands.
  Eventually, the idea goes, it won't feel like you're following a program at all, but rather, instinctively performing the good habits you've always promised yourself you'd develop.
  We enjoyed it so much that we promised ourselves that we would come back.
  I had paid but little attention to the itinerary promising myself I would just sit back, enjoy, and let others do the organising!
  I've been promising myself I will, soon, some day, for the last 12 years.
  As an adult, now is the time to go on that diet you've been promising yourself since January.
  It looks like I'll be able to justify having the small roast-potato on Christmas Day that I've been promising myself for months.
  Definitely flagging now, Penny and I stagger on to the Park Hyatt Hotel where we have promised ourselves a glass or two of wine to celebrate our mammoth and epic journey.
  I've been promising myself for weeks that I will get out and get the garden tidied up ready for the winter but then I make excuses and do something else instead.
  Just before the drawing the lots, she took a lot of time going through the showroom, floor by floor, promising herself that she would be back on a shopping spree.
  Not having a cigarette when you've promised yourself one leaves your body feeling orphaned and betrayed.
  For a few months I kept promising myself I would ‘investigate’ the ghostly phenomenon and nail the suspect, but never got down to it for some reason or the other.

Phrases

I promise (or I promise you)

informal Used for emphasis, especially so as to reassure, encourage, or threaten someone.
oh, I'm not joking, I promise you
Example sentencesExamples
- I'm not one of those apathetic stay-at-home voters that the Labour Party is so worried about, I promise you.
- Now it may seem selfish, but once you have holidayed in this stunningly beautiful country, I promise you'll be loath to share its secrets with anyone.
- Not the best body language to display, I promise you.
- This is not an appeal to your green listeners, Amy, I promise you.
- The exercise part is so simple, I promise you, you'll want to do it everyday, and I've never put that in print before.
- So I promise you, you're not going to hear any naughty words from him.
- No, I promise it's not the makings of a classical joke, as my postman can testify.
- If you want to threaten me, I promise you that no member of your local will work here for the next 60 years.
- You'll never watch Jeremy Paxman's on-screen performances in quite the same way again, I promise you.
- No, there will be no risk of me getting in the way, I promise you.

promise (someone) the earth (or moon)

Make extravagant promises to someone that are unlikely to be fulfilled.
interactive technology titillates, promises the earth but delivers nothing
Example sentencesExamples
- We have a council that promises the earth but provides road calming and roundabouts.
- The people to avoid are the ones that are promising you the earth and you know there's nothing behind it.
- While some parties are talking about Muslim rights, others are promising them the moon.
- At the same time he was promising me the moon, he was making plans to see her!
- The director, who declined to be named, said some start out by promising the earth, but once the workers are in the door, bosses have the freedom to dictate the terms of their employment.
- Do something for them before we get another party promising the earth and getting elected at your, and our, expense.
- With only a few days remaining there will be higher temptations by many people to lie by promising them the moon.
- I wouldn't lay down on that thing even if you promised me the moon.
- Each and every single person you encounter promises you the moon, the stars and perfect love.
- Having been promised the moon, we wound up dealing with polluted water, smudgy air, declining heath and income disparities of the worst kind.

promises, promises

informal Used to indicate that the speaker is skeptical about someone's stated intention to do something.
Example sentencesExamples
- When it's there I will say thank you very much but I have got to the stage where it just seems like promises, promises.

Origin

Late Middle English: from Latin promissum ‘something promised’, neuter past participle of promittere ‘put forth, promise’, from pro- ‘forward’ + mittere ‘send’.

单词	promise
释义	Definition of promise in English: promise noun ˈprɒmɪsˈprɑməs 1A declaration or assurance that one will do something or that a particular thing will happen. what happened to all those firm promises of support? with infinitive I did not keep my promise to go home early Example sentencesExamples We will not hand over our consciences in return for a hollow promise of safety. Later, corruption and broken election promises are almost certain. All the promises, all the assurances, were broken. It has failed to receive firm guarantees or promises from either side. Educated and ambitious, they are lured here by the promise of material acquisition. With the clock ticking, regeneration bosses have reiterated promises of support to help inexperienced organisations draw up strong applications to access the funds. A solemn promise was also made at the end. Unfortunately, the international community does not always back up their generous promises of help with firm commitments. Despite promises of support for people who say they cannot afford to pay tuition fees, the Government has still been accused of pricing higher education out of many people's reach. Like many others, he was lured away by promises of a richer life. The promise of the reward was too much of an enticement for the migrant workers to resist. He ruined her with his empty, broken promises and his declarations of imaginary friendship. Vague promises of unspecified future salvation just don't cut it in today's market. The people nurse deep alienation with the political system and cynicism about the democratic process due to their sad experience of broken promises and forgotten assurances. Most important, information exchange in the private sector is regulated by contract law, and firms that break their promises can pay a price. However, they insist that the government's promises have been broken. We have been hearing the same promises and assurances for more than 10 years now. Who is going to be taken in by promises or assurances in election time? Having to see him and listen to him make empty promises makes me so sad. The Government has angered tenant farmers by not keeping a pre-election promise to introduce a retirement scheme. Synonyms word of honour, word, assurance, pledge, vow, guarantee, oath, bond, undertaking, agreement, commitment, contract, covenant, compact 1.1in singular An indication that something is likely to occur. dawn came with the promise of fine weather Example sentencesExamples Today sees the conclusion of the regatta with three races and the promise of improving weather. It holds within it the promise of peace and security, and he smiles. Every indication points to the promise of continued improvements in the cost and performance of storage, depending on the technology involved. Six weeks ago, a flurry of announcements saw the promise of peace dangle tantalisingly before some of Africa's most wretched countries. The promise of a fine indoor season had been curtailed during a training break in Florida. For children like these, the promise of peace in Angola may come too late. The dialogue of diplomacy then carries the threat of war rather than the promise of peace. Following a fine and warm weekend and with the promise of more sunshine to come, hundreds of people thronged York Railway Station. Day three started with the promise of very fine weather but we were met with a delivery of a sudden shower as we followed a narrow dirt trail. The promise of prosperity and peace that heralded the end of the Cold War is a distant memory. Synonyms indication, hint, suggestion, sign 2mass noun The quality of potential excellence. he showed great promise even as a junior officer Example sentencesExamples If it's obvious from your resume that you have significant promise and potential, chances are you will receive an invitation to interview for the job. His early death was regretted since his music shows unfulfilled promise. On the contrary, molecular medicine holds remarkable promise for improving quality of life and delivering health care more equitably. New approaches show promise, potentially bringing a proof of the Riemann hypothesis within reach. Although she had troubles on bars and beam, she showed great promise for the future. Although they all start out with great promise and potential, they invariably end up a disappointment and we hear nothing more about them. The majority of childhood prodigies never fulfill their early promise. In a statement to the US Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, quoted by Reuters, Pardew described the country as a nation of great promise and potential. Polley is packed with promise and potential. Most consolidation plays failed to realize both their promise and potential. Despite the tremendous potential and promise of genomics, it is very difficult to predict when its benefits for health will be realised. He was a natural leader, and he began his reign with great promise and potential. Of course, the flip side of such promise is the potential for humiliation. Narratives of progress and development are rooted deeply in the potential and promise of the West's best ideals and traditions. To them, he is indicative of a crucial historical phase in Brazil's development and he embodies their country's unfulfilled promise and wasted potential. Continuing research in this field holds great promise for the future. Merger mania during the 1996-2001 period failed to realize much of its promise and potential. For him, this odd little satellite traveling around an evocative solar star represents promise and potential. Finally, the model emphasizes leadership like never before, demanding that effective leaders reach their promise and potential. He's erratic and foul-prone, but he shows too much promise and low-post scoring potential to be ignored. Synonyms potential, ability, aptitude, capability, capacity, potentiality talent, flair verb ˈprɒmɪsˈprɑməs 1reporting verb Assure someone that one will definitely do something or that something will happen. with infinitive he promised to forward my mail with clause she made him promise that he wouldn't do it again with direct speech ‘I'll bring it straight back,’ she promised with two objects he promised her the job Example sentencesExamples After an assessment, these advisors promise to deliver strategic suggestions to move your career to the next level. Bosses have promised to find alternative jobs within the company for as many people as possible. He pointed out that many governments have promised to abolish it but nothing has happened to date. The government promises to keep up its side of the bargain only if the defendant cooperates. An inspector arrived later and promised to have the job done last Friday. The government has already promised to have 25,000 officers in place by 2008. Magazines base their ad rates on how many eyes they can promise to deliver. The Labour manifesto also promised a review of the postal services act. Politicians promise what they want, not what they can do. I'm not promising we'll win it, but I can assure all the supporters that we're determined to give it our best shot. For the unemployed, he is promising to create 200,000 jobs a year. The Federal Government is promising to ‘reduce significantly’ the problem of family benefit overpayments. He had left his job and had promised in his resignation letter to repay all the money. The president promised to abolish emergency laws and create an electoral system where all parties have a chance to participate. The reduction in my expenses in a certain way was something that I definitely promised to do if I got this money. I definitely don't promise to stop hoping that you'll bury the hatchet already. You'll notice I'm not suggesting anyone should promise to lose weight, spend more time with loved ones, write a book or phone mother more often. He had also promised not to tell his parents. It has therefore been necessary to redefine what was meant by the job they promised to complete. "He won't hurt you, " Ally promised with a smile. Synonyms give one's word, swear, pledge, vow, undertake, guarantee, assure, contract, engage, give an undertaking, give an assurance, commit oneself, bind oneself, cross one's heart (and hope to die), swear/take an oath, covenant archaic plight 1.1archaic with object Pledge (someone, especially a woman) to marry someone else; betroth. I've been promised to him for years 2with object Give good grounds for expecting (a particular occurrence) forthcoming concerts promise a feast of music with infinitive it promised to be a night that all would remember Example sentencesExamples The crackdown is not aimed at organised firework shows and tonight promises a feast of spectacular events. For the profession it promises the most radical change they have faced, with talk of 24-hour cover, extended working hours and new grades of consultant. NW Chamber Orchestra's first concert promises an exciting new season Even more than the transfer of power at the top of the party, this change promises fundamental transformation of the political order itself. The election is already promising to be a turning point in Italian politics. This play promises a surprise finale that will shock not only the audience, but the actors as well. Last year a record number of 20,000 spectators enjoyed the show and this year's ‘Green is Clean’ theme promises an even better event. Mr Holland said that he was looking forward to what promised to be the best festival yet. Each merger promised to deliver bigger and better results for both customers and shareholders. The tandoori food festival promises the most delectable of your favourite cuisine. A three-day extravaganza, this festival promises something for everyone. The forthcoming concert promises to be entertaining and varied, with music from all styles and genres. So with that kind of forward power it promises to be an afternoon's hard work ahead. Synonyms indicate, give an/every indication of, lead one to expect, give good grounds for expecting, point to, denote, signify, be a sign of, be evidence of, show signs of, hint at, suggest, give hope of, hold out hopes of, bespeak, presage, be a presage of, augur, herald, bode, foreshadow, portend literary betoken, foretoken, forebode rare harbinger 2.1 Announce (something) as being expected to happen. forecasters were promising a record snowfall in Boston with two objects we're promised more winter weather tonight Example sentencesExamples Forecasters were promising a record snowfall in Boston, Massachusetts, and up to a metre of snow on the Cape Cod peninsula, southeast of Boston. Cuba is on the bounce-back this year, with Virgin Atlantic promising direct flights to Havana in the summer. The forecast for the weekend promises warmer weather, with temperatures expected to reach 10 degrees today and 12 degrees tomorrow. He recently went on record to promise a frank report from the 12-year inquiry into collusion between security forces and loyalist paramilitaries. It's gone now, but the weather promises future freezing. 2.2promise oneself Contemplate the pleasant expectation of. he tidied up the sitting room, promising himself an early night Example sentencesExamples As an adult, now is the time to go on that diet you've been promising yourself since January. Definitely flagging now, Penny and I stagger on to the Park Hyatt Hotel where we have promised ourselves a glass or two of wine to celebrate our mammoth and epic journey. Now is the time to lose all that weight you've been promising yourself. We enjoyed it so much that we promised ourselves that we would come back. You seem not quite ready yet, but promise yourself to expect something interesting in the future. I keep promising myself that I'll learn British Sign Language so that I can speak with my hands. It looks like I'll be able to justify having the small roast-potato on Christmas Day that I've been promising myself for months. I had paid but little attention to the itinerary promising myself I would just sit back, enjoy, and let others do the organising! I've been promising myself I will, soon, some day, for the last 12 years. We had, though, always promised ourselves that we'd do something ‘special’ for the 25th. Eventually, the idea goes, it won't feel like you're following a program at all, but rather, instinctively performing the good habits you've always promised yourself you'd develop. Have you been promising yourself that you will take up something new to get you out during the summer, but then somehow you always manage to end up in the pub? So we've promised ourselves a trip to the garden centre tomorrow, with the intention of getting a couple of trays of cheap and cheerful annuals to fill out the empty bits and to bridge us over until the perennials catch up. Just before the drawing the lots, she took a lot of time going through the showroom, floor by floor, promising herself that she would be back on a shopping spree. We promised ourselves one of these devices as soon as my computer is established in its new home, wherever and whatever that is, but I reckoned it was a good time to buy it now, for all sorts of reasons. I've been promising myself for weeks that I will get out and get the garden tidied up ready for the winter but then I make excuses and do something else instead. For a few months I kept promising myself I would ‘investigate’ the ghostly phenomenon and nail the suspect, but never got down to it for some reason or the other. You will have promised yourself and possibly others that you are going to get fit, eat better, give up something or change the way you deal with some element of life. This might be the moment to get that new phone number you've been promising yourself, and then neglect to pass on the details to me. Not having a cigarette when you've promised yourself one leaves your body feeling orphaned and betrayed. Phrases I promise (or I promise you) informal Used for emphasis, especially so as to reassure, encourage, or threaten someone. oh, I'm not joking, I promise you Example sentencesExamples This is not an appeal to your green listeners, Amy, I promise you. No, I promise it's not the makings of a classical joke, as my postman can testify. No, there will be no risk of me getting in the way, I promise you. Now it may seem selfish, but once you have holidayed in this stunningly beautiful country, I promise you'll be loath to share its secrets with anyone. The exercise part is so simple, I promise you, you'll want to do it everyday, and I've never put that in print before. Not the best body language to display, I promise you. You'll never watch Jeremy Paxman's on-screen performances in quite the same way again, I promise you. I'm not one of those apathetic stay-at-home voters that the Labour Party is so worried about, I promise you. So I promise you, you're not going to hear any naughty words from him. If you want to threaten me, I promise you that no member of your local will work here for the next 60 years. on a promise informal Confidently assured of something, especially of having sexual intercourse. a shop where Tom and I are on a promise with the girls serving there Example sentencesExamples My husband thought he was on a promise on his first date with me. promise (someone) the earth (or moon) Make extravagant promises to someone that are unlikely to be fulfilled. interactive technology titillates, promises the earth but delivers nothing Example sentencesExamples Each and every single person you encounter promises you the moon, the stars and perfect love. We have a council that promises the earth but provides road calming and roundabouts. The people to avoid are the ones that are promising you the earth and you know there's nothing behind it. Do something for them before we get another party promising the earth and getting elected at your, and our, expense. The director, who declined to be named, said some start out by promising the earth, but once the workers are in the door, bosses have the freedom to dictate the terms of their employment. Having been promised the moon, we wound up dealing with polluted water, smudgy air, declining heath and income disparities of the worst kind. I wouldn't lay down on that thing even if you promised me the moon. With only a few days remaining there will be higher temptations by many people to lie by promising them the moon. At the same time he was promising me the moon, he was making plans to see her! While some parties are talking about Muslim rights, others are promising them the moon. promises, promises informal Used to indicate that the speaker is sceptical about someone's stated intention to do something. Example sentencesExamples When it's there I will say thank you very much but I have got to the stage where it just seems like promises, promises. Derivatives promiser noun The Internet mavens who you say promised access to everything must have been latecomers and certainly were not the first promisers. Example sentencesExamples He was a whiner as a government critic and a reckless promiser; in 1954, without consulting colleagues, he suddenly promised to abolish the means test on age pensions. Similarly, if a promise to do an act is an attempt to make an audience believe that the promiser will do the act, then to break a promise is for a promiser to make false a belief that the promiser created. Origin Late Middle English: from Latin promissum 'something promised', neuter past participle of promittere 'put forth, promise', from pro- 'forward' + mittere 'send'. noun.1 phr. Definition of promise in US English: promise nounˈpräməsˈprɑməs 1A declaration or assurance that one will do a particular thing or that a particular thing will happen. what happened to all those firm promises of support? with clause he took my fax number with the promise that he would send me a drawing with infinitive I did not keep my promise to go home early Example sentencesExamples Despite promises of support for people who say they cannot afford to pay tuition fees, the Government has still been accused of pricing higher education out of many people's reach. We will not hand over our consciences in return for a hollow promise of safety. Vague promises of unspecified future salvation just don't cut it in today's market. We have been hearing the same promises and assurances for more than 10 years now. Who is going to be taken in by promises or assurances in election time? The promise of the reward was too much of an enticement for the migrant workers to resist. The Government has angered tenant farmers by not keeping a pre-election promise to introduce a retirement scheme. Later, corruption and broken election promises are almost certain. With the clock ticking, regeneration bosses have reiterated promises of support to help inexperienced organisations draw up strong applications to access the funds. Having to see him and listen to him make empty promises makes me so sad. Most important, information exchange in the private sector is regulated by contract law, and firms that break their promises can pay a price. Like many others, he was lured away by promises of a richer life. A solemn promise was also made at the end. However, they insist that the government's promises have been broken. It has failed to receive firm guarantees or promises from either side. All the promises, all the assurances, were broken. He ruined her with his empty, broken promises and his declarations of imaginary friendship. Unfortunately, the international community does not always back up their generous promises of help with firm commitments. The people nurse deep alienation with the political system and cynicism about the democratic process due to their sad experience of broken promises and forgotten assurances. Educated and ambitious, they are lured here by the promise of material acquisition. Synonyms word of honour, word, assurance, pledge, vow, guarantee, oath, bond, undertaking, agreement, commitment, contract, covenant, compact 1.1 The quality of potential excellence. he showed great promise even as a junior officer Example sentencesExamples His early death was regretted since his music shows unfulfilled promise. He was a natural leader, and he began his reign with great promise and potential. Although she had troubles on bars and beam, she showed great promise for the future. Continuing research in this field holds great promise for the future. Despite the tremendous potential and promise of genomics, it is very difficult to predict when its benefits for health will be realised. Merger mania during the 1996-2001 period failed to realize much of its promise and potential. To them, he is indicative of a crucial historical phase in Brazil's development and he embodies their country's unfulfilled promise and wasted potential. New approaches show promise, potentially bringing a proof of the Riemann hypothesis within reach. Of course, the flip side of such promise is the potential for humiliation. In a statement to the US Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, quoted by Reuters, Pardew described the country as a nation of great promise and potential. On the contrary, molecular medicine holds remarkable promise for improving quality of life and delivering health care more equitably. For him, this odd little satellite traveling around an evocative solar star represents promise and potential. Most consolidation plays failed to realize both their promise and potential. Although they all start out with great promise and potential, they invariably end up a disappointment and we hear nothing more about them. Finally, the model emphasizes leadership like never before, demanding that effective leaders reach their promise and potential. The majority of childhood prodigies never fulfill their early promise. He's erratic and foul-prone, but he shows too much promise and low-post scoring potential to be ignored. Narratives of progress and development are rooted deeply in the potential and promise of the West's best ideals and traditions. Polley is packed with promise and potential. If it's obvious from your resume that you have significant promise and potential, chances are you will receive an invitation to interview for the job. Synonyms potential, ability, aptitude, capability, capacity, potentiality 1.2in singular An indication that something specified is expected or likely to occur. the promise of peace Example sentencesExamples Six weeks ago, a flurry of announcements saw the promise of peace dangle tantalisingly before some of Africa's most wretched countries. Every indication points to the promise of continued improvements in the cost and performance of storage, depending on the technology involved. It holds within it the promise of peace and security, and he smiles. The dialogue of diplomacy then carries the threat of war rather than the promise of peace. Today sees the conclusion of the regatta with three races and the promise of improving weather. Following a fine and warm weekend and with the promise of more sunshine to come, hundreds of people thronged York Railway Station. The promise of a fine indoor season had been curtailed during a training break in Florida. The promise of prosperity and peace that heralded the end of the Cold War is a distant memory. Day three started with the promise of very fine weather but we were met with a delivery of a sudden shower as we followed a narrow dirt trail. For children like these, the promise of peace in Angola may come too late. Synonyms indication, hint, suggestion, sign verbˈpräməsˈprɑməs 1reporting verb Assure someone that one will definitely do, give, or arrange something; undertake or declare that something will happen. with infinitive he promised to forward my mail with clause she made him promise that he wouldn't do it again with direct speech “I'll bring it right back,” she promised with two objects he promised her the job Example sentencesExamples You'll notice I'm not suggesting anyone should promise to lose weight, spend more time with loved ones, write a book or phone mother more often. The Labour manifesto also promised a review of the postal services act. He had left his job and had promised in his resignation letter to repay all the money. After an assessment, these advisors promise to deliver strategic suggestions to move your career to the next level. I definitely don't promise to stop hoping that you'll bury the hatchet already. Magazines base their ad rates on how many eyes they can promise to deliver. Politicians promise what they want, not what they can do. He had also promised not to tell his parents. It has therefore been necessary to redefine what was meant by the job they promised to complete. The Federal Government is promising to ‘reduce significantly’ the problem of family benefit overpayments. The reduction in my expenses in a certain way was something that I definitely promised to do if I got this money. I'm not promising we'll win it, but I can assure all the supporters that we're determined to give it our best shot. "He won't hurt you, " Ally promised with a smile. The president promised to abolish emergency laws and create an electoral system where all parties have a chance to participate. Bosses have promised to find alternative jobs within the company for as many people as possible. For the unemployed, he is promising to create 200,000 jobs a year. An inspector arrived later and promised to have the job done last Friday. The government promises to keep up its side of the bargain only if the defendant cooperates. The government has already promised to have 25,000 officers in place by 2008. He pointed out that many governments have promised to abolish it but nothing has happened to date. Synonyms give one's word, swear, pledge, vow, undertake, guarantee, assure, contract, engage, give an undertaking, give an assurance, commit oneself, bind oneself, cross one's heart, cross one's heart and hope to die, swear an oath, take an oath, covenant 1.1usually be promisedarchaic with object Pledge (someone, especially a woman) to marry someone else; betroth. I've been promised to him for years 2with object Give good grounds for expecting (a particular occurrence or situation) forthcoming concerts promise a feast of music from around the world with infinitive it promised to be a night that all present would long remember Example sentencesExamples Last year a record number of 20,000 spectators enjoyed the show and this year's ‘Green is Clean’ theme promises an even better event. The tandoori food festival promises the most delectable of your favourite cuisine. This play promises a surprise finale that will shock not only the audience, but the actors as well. Mr Holland said that he was looking forward to what promised to be the best festival yet. The crackdown is not aimed at organised firework shows and tonight promises a feast of spectacular events. The election is already promising to be a turning point in Italian politics. The forthcoming concert promises to be entertaining and varied, with music from all styles and genres. For the profession it promises the most radical change they have faced, with talk of 24-hour cover, extended working hours and new grades of consultant. Even more than the transfer of power at the top of the party, this change promises fundamental transformation of the political order itself. So with that kind of forward power it promises to be an afternoon's hard work ahead. A three-day extravaganza, this festival promises something for everyone. NW Chamber Orchestra's first concert promises an exciting new season Each merger promised to deliver bigger and better results for both customers and shareholders. Synonyms indicate, give an indication of, give every indication of, lead one to expect, give good grounds for expecting, point to, denote, signify, be a sign of, be evidence of, show signs of, hint at, suggest, give hope of, hold out hopes of, bespeak, presage, be a presage of, augur, herald, bode, foreshadow, portend 2.1 (of a person, publication, institution, etc.) announce (something) as being expected to happen. with two objects we're promised more winter weather tonight in its pre-Christmas trading statement it promised record results Example sentencesExamples Cuba is on the bounce-back this year, with Virgin Atlantic promising direct flights to Havana in the summer. It's gone now, but the weather promises future freezing. The forecast for the weekend promises warmer weather, with temperatures expected to reach 10 degrees today and 12 degrees tomorrow. He recently went on record to promise a frank report from the 12-year inquiry into collusion between security forces and loyalist paramilitaries. Forecasters were promising a record snowfall in Boston, Massachusetts, and up to a metre of snow on the Cape Cod peninsula, southeast of Boston. 2.2promise oneself Contemplate the pleasant expectation of. he tidied up the room, promising himself an early night Example sentencesExamples So we've promised ourselves a trip to the garden centre tomorrow, with the intention of getting a couple of trays of cheap and cheerful annuals to fill out the empty bits and to bridge us over until the perennials catch up. We had, though, always promised ourselves that we'd do something ‘special’ for the 25th. You will have promised yourself and possibly others that you are going to get fit, eat better, give up something or change the way you deal with some element of life. Have you been promising yourself that you will take up something new to get you out during the summer, but then somehow you always manage to end up in the pub? Now is the time to lose all that weight you've been promising yourself. You seem not quite ready yet, but promise yourself to expect something interesting in the future. We promised ourselves one of these devices as soon as my computer is established in its new home, wherever and whatever that is, but I reckoned it was a good time to buy it now, for all sorts of reasons. This might be the moment to get that new phone number you've been promising yourself, and then neglect to pass on the details to me. I keep promising myself that I'll learn British Sign Language so that I can speak with my hands. Eventually, the idea goes, it won't feel like you're following a program at all, but rather, instinctively performing the good habits you've always promised yourself you'd develop. We enjoyed it so much that we promised ourselves that we would come back. I had paid but little attention to the itinerary promising myself I would just sit back, enjoy, and let others do the organising! I've been promising myself I will, soon, some day, for the last 12 years. As an adult, now is the time to go on that diet you've been promising yourself since January. It looks like I'll be able to justify having the small roast-potato on Christmas Day that I've been promising myself for months. Definitely flagging now, Penny and I stagger on to the Park Hyatt Hotel where we have promised ourselves a glass or two of wine to celebrate our mammoth and epic journey. I've been promising myself for weeks that I will get out and get the garden tidied up ready for the winter but then I make excuses and do something else instead. Just before the drawing the lots, she took a lot of time going through the showroom, floor by floor, promising herself that she would be back on a shopping spree. Not having a cigarette when you've promised yourself one leaves your body feeling orphaned and betrayed. For a few months I kept promising myself I would ‘investigate’ the ghostly phenomenon and nail the suspect, but never got down to it for some reason or the other. Phrases I promise (or I promise you) informal Used for emphasis, especially so as to reassure, encourage, or threaten someone. oh, I'm not joking, I promise you Example sentencesExamples I'm not one of those apathetic stay-at-home voters that the Labour Party is so worried about, I promise you. Now it may seem selfish, but once you have holidayed in this stunningly beautiful country, I promise you'll be loath to share its secrets with anyone. Not the best body language to display, I promise you. This is not an appeal to your green listeners, Amy, I promise you. The exercise part is so simple, I promise you, you'll want to do it everyday, and I've never put that in print before. So I promise you, you're not going to hear any naughty words from him. No, I promise it's not the makings of a classical joke, as my postman can testify. If you want to threaten me, I promise you that no member of your local will work here for the next 60 years. You'll never watch Jeremy Paxman's on-screen performances in quite the same way again, I promise you. No, there will be no risk of me getting in the way, I promise you. promise (someone) the earth (or moon) Make extravagant promises to someone that are unlikely to be fulfilled. interactive technology titillates, promises the earth but delivers nothing Example sentencesExamples We have a council that promises the earth but provides road calming and roundabouts. The people to avoid are the ones that are promising you the earth and you know there's nothing behind it. While some parties are talking about Muslim rights, others are promising them the moon. At the same time he was promising me the moon, he was making plans to see her! The director, who declined to be named, said some start out by promising the earth, but once the workers are in the door, bosses have the freedom to dictate the terms of their employment. Do something for them before we get another party promising the earth and getting elected at your, and our, expense. With only a few days remaining there will be higher temptations by many people to lie by promising them the moon. I wouldn't lay down on that thing even if you promised me the moon. Each and every single person you encounter promises you the moon, the stars and perfect love. Having been promised the moon, we wound up dealing with polluted water, smudgy air, declining heath and income disparities of the worst kind. promises, promises informal Used to indicate that the speaker is skeptical about someone's stated intention to do something. Example sentencesExamples When it's there I will say thank you very much but I have got to the stage where it just seems like promises, promises. Origin Late Middle English: from Latin promissum ‘something promised’, neuter past participle of promittere ‘put forth, promise’, from pro- ‘forward’ + mittere ‘send’. noun.1 phr.
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