a firm commitment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a firm commitment" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a strong and unwavering promise or dedication to a particular course of action or goal. Example: "The organization has made a firm commitment to reducing its carbon footprint by 50% over the next decade."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Meanwhile a firm commitment on the dividend provides an underpin.

The Guardian - Business

Make a firm commitment to revisit it down the line.

Harvard Business Review

But none involved an exchange of money and thus a firm commitment to attending.

The New York Times

She continues:  "I still took my promise as a firm commitment.

The New York Times

President Obama has shown a firm commitment to using government to help foster growth.

The New York Times

Seattle has commissioned a feasibility study but it too has yet to make a firm commitment.

The Economist

It did not represent a firm commitment by society to open-ended space exploration.

The New York Times - Science

A firm commitment that ticket prices will not exceed the current regulated fares would help.

The Guardian

Despite a firm commitment to price, Glencore made some revisions to the proposal from Friday.

The New York Times

Drexel Burnham had a firm commitment for this sum by October 18.

Harvard University

The four countries were the first to make a firm commitment to send troops.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a firm commitment", ensure that the action or goal is clearly defined and measurable. This provides clarity and demonstrates the seriousness of the commitment.

Common error

Avoid using "a firm commitment" without specifying the exact nature of the commitment. Ambiguity can undermine the perceived strength of the promise. Always follow up with details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a firm commitment" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a strong and unwavering promise or dedication, as supported by examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a firm commitment" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a strong and unwavering promise or dedication. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and formal settings. While it can be used more informally, its serious tone lends itself to professional environments. When using "a firm commitment", ensure clarity in defining the commitment's specifics to avoid ambiguity and strengthen the impact of the promise. Consider alternatives like "a solid dedication" or "an unwavering promise" to add nuance or variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unwavering promise

This alternative replaces "firm commitment" with the simpler and direct "unwavering promise", focusing on the reliability of the pledge.

a solid dedication

This alternative replaces "commitment" with "dedication" and "firm" with "solid", conveying a strong sense of purpose and resolve.

a definite undertaking

This alternative uses "undertaking" instead of "commitment" and "definite" instead of "firm", implying a clear and unambiguous promise.

a steadfast pledge

This alternative substitutes "commitment" with "pledge" and "firm" with "steadfast", emphasizing loyalty and unwavering support.

a categorical guarantee

This alternative emphasizes the explicit and unconditional nature of the commitment, implying no doubts or reservations.

a resolute assurance

This phrase swaps "commitment" for "assurance" and "firm" for "resolute", highlighting the certainty and determination behind the promise.

a guaranteed obligation

This alternative replaces "commitment" with "obligation" and "firm" with "guaranteed", emphasizing the binding nature of the promise.

a binding agreement

This alternative focuses on the legally or morally compelling nature of a commitment, suggesting a formal or serious understanding.

a solemn vow

This alternative implies a deep, often spiritual or moral, pledge, suggesting a level of seriousness and intent.

a determined resolution

This phrase places emphasis on the mental fortitude and decision-making aspect of a commitment, highlighting the act of deciding firmly.

FAQs

How can I use "a firm commitment" in a sentence?

You can use "a firm commitment" to express a strong promise or dedication. For example, "The company has "a firm commitment" to sustainable practices."

What phrases are similar to "a firm commitment"?

Alternatives include "a solid dedication", "a definite undertaking", or "an unwavering promise", all conveying a strong sense of assurance.

Is it better to say "firm commitment" or "strong commitment"?

Both "firm commitment" and "strong commitment" are acceptable, but "firm commitment" often implies a more definitive and less flexible promise. The choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a firm commitment" and "a soft commitment"?

"A firm commitment" indicates a solid, reliable promise, while "a soft commitment" suggests a tentative or less binding agreement. The former is more resolute and dependable.