a solemn vow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a solemn vow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a serious promise or commitment, often in a formal or ceremonial context. Example: "During the wedding ceremony, the couple exchanged a solemn vow to love and support each other for the rest of their lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

And so we wrap up this four-column series with a solemn vow.

The New York Times

No one quite knew just what a solemn vow entailed; they soon found out.

The Guardian

An entry in my journal reads, "I made a solemn vow to return to Venice and become a gondolier".

The New Yorker

The Beatles' "And I Love Him" was taken so slowly that its breezy assertion of love became a solemn vow.

The New York Times

The couple have taken a solemn vow to eat at the world's 50 best restaurants by the age of 50.

The New York Times

On Monday, the Family Leader released a response by Mr. Gingrich, who gave what he called a solemn vow "to defend and strengthen the family".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

"I made a very solemn vow about firearms," Bruce Wayne said in 2009, as he approached the evil god who would go on to kill him.

Vice

Rather than simply walking to get another pair of AA batteries from the storage room, however, I resolved to never use a mouse again a solemn vow I kept for exactly one (1) work week.

Vice

Ladies and gentlemen, that solemn vow did not come out of a vacuum.

Unicef

The Tories What solemn vow?

The Guardian

The SNP What about the solemn vow?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a solemn vow", ensure the context reflects the serious and deeply felt nature of the commitment. It is best suited for situations where the promise carries significant personal or ethical weight.

Common error

Avoid using "a solemn vow" in trivial or everyday situations. Its gravitas can sound overly dramatic or insincere if applied inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a solemn vow" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI indicates it describes a serious and deeply felt promise or commitment. It is often used to emphasize the weight and significance of the undertaking.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a solemn vow" signifies a serious and deeply felt commitment. As Ludwig AI points out, it functions as a noun phrase, aiming to convey assurance and dedication. Its usage spans various contexts, predominantly appearing in news and media, reflecting its formal and neutral register. While grammatically sound and frequently used, it is essential to reserve "a solemn vow" for situations that genuinely warrant its gravity, avoiding overuse in casual contexts. As indicated by the analysis, related phrases like "a sacred oath" or "a binding pledge" can provide suitable alternatives depending on the desired nuance. The prevalence across authoritative sources underscores its recognized place in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A sacred oath

Emphasizes the holiness and inviolability of the promise.

A binding pledge

Focuses on the legally or morally obligatory nature of the commitment.

A firm promise

Highlights the unwavering nature of the commitment.

A heartfelt commitment

Emphasizes the emotional depth and sincerity of the pledge.

A resolute declaration

Stresses the decisiveness and determination behind the statement.

A sworn undertaking

Highlights the formal and often public nature of the promise.

An ironclad guarantee

Focuses on the absolute certainty and reliability of the assurance.

A profound assurance

Highlights the depth and significance of the commitment.

A dedicated resolution

Emphasizes the unwavering commitment to a specific goal or action.

A steadfast agreement

Focuses on the unwavering nature of the agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "a solemn vow" in a sentence?

You can use "a solemn vow" to describe a serious promise or commitment. For example, "He made "a solemn vow" to protect his family."

What are some alternatives to "a solemn vow"?

Alternatives include "a sacred oath", "a binding pledge", or "a firm promise". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a solemn vow" formal or informal?

"A solemn vow" tends to be formal due to the strong commitment it suggests. However, its use can vary depending on the overall tone and context of the writing or speech.

What makes "a solemn vow" different from a regular promise?

While a promise can be casual, "a solemn vow" implies a deeply serious commitment, often invoking moral or ethical principles. It indicates a pledge that the speaker intends to uphold with unwavering dedication.