pledge
PLEJ
/plɛdʒ/
A solemn promise or agreement to do something, or to commit security for a promise.
Often represents a public political commitment, such as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which may lack immediate legal enforcement.
The story behind the word. Originating in Old French 'plegge' (a guarantee or hostage given as security), from Germanic roots meaning responsibility. In medieval feudalism, a pledge was a physical item or person given to guarantee performance of a covenant.
Word relationships
- vow: A vow carries deeply personal or spiritual weight, while a pledge is typically public and political.
- commitment: Commitment is a general state of being dedicated, whereas a pledge is a specific promised action.
- breach: Breach means breaking a promise or legal duty.
- renunciation: Renunciation is the formal rejection of a former pledge or claim.
Commonly confused with
- plight: A plight is a dangerous or unfortunate situation, whereas a pledge is a solemn promise.
Word family
- pledged (adjective): Promised or committed under oath.
- pledgee (noun): A person to whom a pledge is given.
Collocations
- climate pledge
- make a pledge
- fulfill a pledge
- financial pledge
Idioms & expressions
- take the pledge
- pledge allegiance
Example sentences
- "More than one hundred countries made a pledge to cut methane emissions by thirty percent by the end of the decade." Summit ministerial declaration
- "The technology giant renewed its pledge to achieve zero waste across all operations." Corporate announcement
Memory hook
PLEDGE = Put your LEG DOWN and promise. A public vow guaranteed by honor.
When not to use
Do not use to describe a binding contract signed with legal counsel unless security or collateral is pledged.
Fun facts
- In ancient times, drinking a health or 'pledging' someone involved taking a sip to prove the beverage wasn't poisoned.
Related words
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