promised

3 definitions • 11 examples

past simple and past participle of

to tell someone that you will certainly do something:

[ + to infinitive ] He promised faithfully to call me every week.

[ + that ] The government have promised that they'll reduce taxes.

[ + (that) ] Promise me (that) you won't tell him.

I'll look for some while I'm at the shops but I'm not promising anything.

Can I have that book back when you've finished because I've promised it (= I have said I will give it) to Sara.

[ + two objects ] Her parents promised her a new car if she passed her exams.

I've promised myself a long bath when I get through all this work.

[ + speech ] "I'll come round and see you every day," she promised.

"I won't do anything dangerous." "You promise?" "I promise."

"I won't have time to take you shopping this afternoon." "But you promised!"

If something promises to be good, exciting, etc. it is expected to be good, exciting, etc.:

It promises to be a really exciting game.