Promises are an essential element of human relationships, and breaking them can have significant consequences. When someone fails to keep their promise, it can lead to disappointment, mistrust, and even damage to the relationship. In this article, we will explore the meaning and definition of “break one’s promise,” its origin, and its various associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
To break one’s promise means to fail to keep a commitment made to someone else. It is an act of failing to fulfill an obligation or duty that one has promised to undertake. It can be intentional or unintentional, but either way, it can cause disappointment and mistrust in the person who was promised something.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “break one’s promise” is not clear. However, the word “promise” comes from the Latin word “promissum,” which means “a promise or undertaking.” The word “break” comes from the Old English word “brecan,” which means “to break, shatter, or destroy.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, to break one’s promise means “to fail to do what one has promised to do.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to fail to keep a promise or commitment made to someone else.”
Associations
Breaking a promise can have various associations, depending on the context. It can be perceived as a breach of trust, a lack of integrity, or a sign of disrespect. It can also lead to disappointment, anger, or resentment in the person who was promised something.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “break one’s promise” include:
- Fail to keep a promise.
- Break a commitment.
- Betray trust.
- Let someone down.
- Disappoint.
- Deceive.
- Mislead.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “break one’s promise” include:
- Keep a promise.
- Fulfill a commitment.
- Honor an agreement.
- Stay true to one’s word.
- Follow through on a pledge.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as “break one’s promise” include:
- Breakdown.
- Breakthrough.
- Breakup.
- Breach.
- Broken.
Example Sentences
- She promised to come to my party, but she broke her promise and didn’t show up.
- I can’t believe he broke his promise to pay me back. I trusted him.
- Breaking a promise is a serious matter and can damage relationships.
- If you can’t keep your promise, it’s better to be honest and communicate with the other person.
Breaking one’s promise can have significant consequences, both for the person who made the promise and the person who was promised something. It can lead to disappointment, mistrust, and even damage to the relationship. It is essential to take promises seriously and fulfill them to the best of our ability.