commit him to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commit him to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to mean to pledge someone to a particular course of action or responsibility. For example: "The mayor committed him to heading the committee for the city's redevelopment project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Green's answer did not commit him to any precise outcome.

The Guardian - Business

I wanted Pete to sign a contract to commit him to completing film.

The Guardian - Music

His wife, Lee Ada, had to commit him to the state hospital for months.

The New York Times

Number 10 will not yet absolutely commit him to bringing the question back to parliament.

The Guardian - Opinion

His indenture papers commit him to remain a pirate until his "21st birthday," not his "21st year".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although he did not speak with Steinbrenner, Stottlemyre said his raise was enough to commit him to return next season.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Gadamer's commitment to the linguisticality of understanding also commits him to a view of understanding as essentially a matter of conceptual articulation.

SEP

In 1916 his wife committed him to Manhattan State Hospital.

The New York Times - Arts

After he shared his concerns, his superiors committed him to a psychiatric hospital for six days.

The New York Times

Heartsick in old age, he asks the rabbis to write a new contract, committing him to philanthropy.

The New Yorker

He signed a series of agreements committing him to make peace in 1993.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "commit him to", ensure the context clearly indicates whether the commitment is voluntary, legally binding, or coerced. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "commit him to" when a weaker form of agreement or support is intended. Phrases like "encourage him to" or "invite him to" may be more appropriate if the situation doesn't involve a firm obligation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commit him to" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to indicate obligation, dedication, or confinement. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples show its use in contexts ranging from legal agreements to mental health interventions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "commit him to" is a versatile expression used to denote obligation, dedication, or confinement. As Ludwig AI states, it's a correct and usable phrase in English. It appears most frequently in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias sources. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly indicates the nature of the commitment—whether it's legally binding, voluntary, or coerced. Understanding the scope of commitment prevents misinterpretations. Consider alternatives like "oblige him to" or "dedicate him to" for nuanced meanings. By paying attention to these details, writers can effectively use "commit him to" to convey precise meanings in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

oblige him to

Emphasizes a sense of duty or legal requirement, differing from a voluntary commitment.

bind him to

Highlights the creation of a strong, often inescapable, obligation or connection.

compel him to

Focuses on forcing or strongly persuading someone to take a particular action.

dedicate him to

Focuses on setting someone aside for a specific purpose, often with a sense of honor or solemnity.

devote him to

Emphasizes a complete and selfless dedication to a cause or purpose.

assign him to

Suggests a more formal or administrative allocation of duties or responsibilities.

consign him to

Suggests handing someone over to a negative fate or situation, like confinement.

entrust him with

Implies giving someone responsibility and confidence, differing from forced obligation.

subject him to

Suggests placing someone under the authority or control of something or someone else.

indebt him to

Highlights the creation of a debt or obligation, often through gratitude or dependency.

FAQs

How can I use "commit him to" in a sentence?

You can use "commit him to" to indicate that someone is being obligated or dedicated to something, as in "The contract "committed him to" a five-year project".

What are some alternatives to "commit him to"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "oblige him to", "dedicate him to", or "assign him to".

Is it appropriate to use "commit him to" in formal writing?

Yes, "commit him to" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing contracts, obligations, or formal dedications. However, ensure the context aligns with the serious tone.

What is the difference between "commit him to" and "encourage him to"?

"Commit him to" implies a binding obligation or strong dedication, while "encourage him to" suggests influence without a firm obligation. The choice depends on the level of commitment involved.