Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[tomato888]

Dear teachers:

I'm a student from National Central University in Taiwan , and here's my question:
Are pledge and promise two same words?
If I say:
I promise I can get a good grade =I pledge I can get a good grade?Thank you!

Sincerely
Yours,Penny

[pugachevV]

In your example they are both OK. I would say that pledge is a more formal word and less usual in this context.

[tomato888]

Dear teacher:

I also think "pledge" is seldom used.
Thank you very much

[lotus]

tomato888,

Pledge and promise have subtle differences in meaning. When you promise something, you make a commitment to do something -- usually for the benefit of somebody else. When you pledge to do something, it's usually a promise to yourself.

The subtle difference is not always clear.

We often pledge things for our own peace of mind.
1a) I pledge allegiance
2a) I pledge $100 to the Children's Fund
3a) I pledge that I'll study hard and get better grades in the future

We usually promise to satisfy somebody else's needs.
1b) I promise to give you the money tomorrow
2b) I promise I'll never do that again
3b) I promise I'll get better grades

You might say say that 3a and 3b are the same -- but they are not. 3a is promising yourself that you'll do better. 3b is promising somebody else (perhaps your parents) that you'll do better.

A promise is more like a contractual agreement. A pledge is more like a promise to yourself for personal fulfillment.


--lotus
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