a definite pledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definite pledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a clear and firm commitment or promise made by someone. Example: "The organization made a definite pledge to support environmental sustainability initiatives in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Hanoi and the Vietcong have long sought a definite pledge of total, unconditional with drawal.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But he had also made one definite pledge: to repeal Prohibition.

Los Angeles Times

Bottomry, a maritime contract (now almost obsolete) by which the owner of a ship borrows money for equipping or repairing the vessel and, for a definite term, pledges the ship as security it being stipulated that if the ship be lost in the specified voyage or period, by any of the perils enumerated, the lender shall lose his money.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That is a definite.

The Guardian

A definite weakness.

The New York Times - Health

A, a definite right.

Yale University

It's a definite penalty!

The Telegraph

Call that a definite maybe.

The Guardian - Business

Set a definite ending time.

The New York Times

Hollywood has a definite hierarchy.

The New York Times

"The handball is a definite".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a definite pledge" with specific actions or timelines to demonstrate the commitment is not just a statement, but a plan for tangible outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "a definite pledge" for minor commitments. Reserve this phrase for substantial undertakings where failure to deliver would have significant consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite pledge" functions as a noun phrase, where "definite" modifies the noun "pledge", emphasizing the certainty and clarity of the promise. Ludwig confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

50%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite pledge" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that conveys a strong and unambiguous commitment. Though rarely used, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica. Ludwig AI highlights that the phrase emphasizes clarity and certainty. Consider alternatives like "a clear promise" or "a firm commitment" for variety. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the promise and avoid overusing it for minor commitments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear promise

Replaces "definite" with "clear", emphasizing the unambiguous nature of the commitment.

a firm commitment

Substitutes "definite" with "firm", highlighting the resolute nature of the obligation.

an explicit guarantee

Changes "pledge" to "guarantee" and "definite" to "explicit", focusing on the assurance aspect.

a solid assurance

Replaces "pledge" with "assurance" and "definite" with "solid", emphasizing the reliability of the undertaking.

a binding agreement

Substitutes "pledge" with "agreement" and adds "binding", stressing the legal or formal nature of the commitment.

a solemn vow

Replaces "definite pledge" with "solemn vow", suggesting a more formal and serious undertaking.

a categorical assurance

Uses "categorical" instead of "definite", emphasizing the unconditional and unambiguous nature of the assurance.

a guaranteed undertaking

Swaps "pledge" for "undertaking" and highlights the guaranteed aspect of the commitment.

a resolute promise

Replaces "definite" with "resolute", focusing on the unwavering intention behind the promise.

an unwavering commitment

Highlights the steadfast and enduring nature of the commitment, replacing "definite pledge" with a stronger expression.

FAQs

How can I use "a definite pledge" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite pledge" to emphasize a firm commitment or promise. For example, "The company made "a definite pledge" to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030".

What are some alternatives to "a definite pledge"?

Some alternatives to "a definite pledge" include "a clear promise", "a firm commitment", or "an explicit guarantee".

Is it better to say "a definite pledge" or "a firm pledge"?

Both "a definite pledge" and "a firm pledge" are acceptable. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Definite" emphasizes clarity and lack of ambiguity, while "firm" emphasizes the resolute nature of the commitment. However, in this context, the difference is so subtle that they are interchangeable.

What does "a definite pledge" imply?

Using the term "a definite pledge" implies that the commitment is not just a casual promise but a serious undertaking with a clear intention to fulfill it. It suggests a strong level of commitment and assurance.