pledge
PLEJ
/plɛdʒ/
A solemn promise or agreement; in finance, a physical object given to a lender as security for a loan.
Can mean a verbal/written promise (like a charity pledge) or the actual physical item deposited as collateral.
The story behind the word. Originating in the medieval legal system, a 'pleige' was a person who stood as security for another's appearance in court. It eventually shifted from the person acting as security to the physical object deposited as security.
Word relationships
- promise: Promise is informal and general, while pledge is formal and often backed by an asset or public commitment.
- guarantee: A guarantee is a legal assurance, whereas a pledge can be the physical object itself.
- renege: To go back on a promise or commitment.
Commonly confused with
- oath: An oath is a religious or legal invocation of truth, while a pledge is a commitment to do something or an asset deposited.
Word family
- pledger (noun): A person who gives a pledge.
Collocations
- make a pledge
- sign a pledge
- pledge allegiance
- hold as a pledge
Example sentences
- "She left her diamond brooch as a pledge for the fifty-dollar loan." Pawning an item.
- "The nations made a solemn pledge to reduce carbon emissions by half." A formal promise of support.
Memory hook
Think of the 'Pledge' furniture polish. You make a 'pledge' to keep your wooden table clean and shiny. A pledge is a promise you can polish (keep bright).
When not to use
Do not use for casual, non-binding promises; a pledge implies a serious, formal commitment or physical security.
Fun facts
- In traditional English pubs, a patron might leave their hat or coat as a 'pledge' to ensure they would return to pay their bar tab.
Related words
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