pledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a solemn promise or commitment to do something, often in a formal context. Example: "I would like to pledge my support for this important initiative to help the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The 2 million people from other EU states who live in Britain will be forced to have resident permits or identity cards if David Cameron is to fulfil his pledge to make rules on access to public services for new migrants the toughest in Europe.

The Guardian

Nick Clegg, who has been briefed by the prime minister on the speech, will reject Cameron's pledge to hold a referendum by 2017 on the grounds that it is wrong to commit Britain to such a specific timetable when there is uncertainty over whether negotiations will take place.

The Guardian

One example is the Advanced Market Commitment tool, where donors pledge to purchase developing country disease-focused vaccines or medicines, giving companies a commercial buyer and thus a reason to risk their R&D investment and product development.

The Guardian

But Fox's pledge to maintain Britain's ability to wage war unilaterally, cooperate with France while snubbing the EU's defence agency, cutting Whitehall staff and reforming wasteful procurement (again) does not sound like tough realism, especially when combined with Cameron's gimmicky "war cabinet" and national security adviser approach.

The Guardian - Opinion

Related: Tessa Jowell launches London mayoral bid with housebuilding pledge Jowell said: "Most mothers can form strong bonds with their children, but there are hundreds of children born every year in this city who are not born with that opportunity, and its consequences are lifelong.

The Guardian

The Guardian has unveiled its Australian digital edition with a pledge to deliver a "fresh and independent view", starting with an exclusive interview with prime minister Julia Gillard who criticises rival Tony Abbott's flagship paid parental leave policy as "anti-women" – and revealing that she is a secret Game of Thrones fan.

The Guardian

Europe will be in no position to offer such a strategy until it renews its pledge to the emancipatory core of its history.

The Guardian

Paul has made his longtime opposition to the NSA's surveillance dragnet a key tenet of his 2016 campaign and followed through on his pledge to let the Patriot Act expire – although he voted against the USA Freedom Act on Tuesday, arguing that it does not go far enough.

The Guardian

But one, by ICM for Scotland on Sunday, found that one in 10 no voters would switch to support independence if there was no clear pledge to give Holyrood more power before the referendum is held, bringing the yes campaign closer to winning the vote.

The Guardian

We hereby pledge that we will spare no efforts until Dubai government achieves its vision to be one of the top 10 happiest cities in the world by 2021".

The Guardian

Steve Hansen wanted the 25-year-old Symons to pledge his future to the All Blacks but the former Esher player, who met England's forward coach, Graham Rowntree, in New Zealand last summer, is keen to pull on the white shirt.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pledge", ensure that the commitment is clear and specific. Avoid vague or ambiguous language to maintain clarity and credibility.

Common error

While "pledge" is a strong word, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using alternatives like "promise" or "guarantee" in less formal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "pledge" is as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it represents a solemn promise or commitment. As a verb, it signifies the act of making such a promise. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form, mirroring its diverse usage in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

9%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "pledge" functions as both a noun and a verb, conveying a strong sense of commitment or assurance. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and formal contexts. While "pledge" is versatile, it's important to consider the formality of the situation, opting for alternatives like "promise" in casual settings. With numerous examples and high source quality, "pledge" remains a powerful word for expressing serious intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solemn promise

Emphasizes the serious and binding nature of the commitment, highlighting its formality.

formal commitment

Highlights the official and structured aspect of the undertaking.

vow

Implies a deeply personal and often spiritual promise.

guarantee

Focuses on the assurance of a specific outcome or performance.

assurance

Highlights the act of giving confidence and certainty to someone.

undertaking

Suggests a formal and serious acceptance of a task or responsibility.

covenant

Implies a binding agreement, often with legal or moral weight.

word of honor

Emphasizes the speaker's integrity and personal responsibility.

affirmation

Highlights the act of stating something firmly and publicly.

oath

Suggests a sworn declaration, often used in legal or formal settings.

FAQs

How to use "pledge" in a sentence?

The word "pledge" can be used as a noun to describe a solemn promise or commitment, or as a verb meaning to make such a promise. For example, "The politician made a "pledge" to lower taxes," or "I "pledge" to support this initiative".

What can I say instead of "pledge"?

You can use alternatives like "promise", "commitment", or "assurance" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "pledge" or "promise"?

Both ""pledge"" and "promise" are correct, but "pledge" often implies a more formal or solemn commitment than "promise".

What's the difference between "pledge" and "vow"?

"Pledge" is a general term for a serious promise, while a "vow" often implies a sacred or deeply personal promise. A "vow" carries a stronger sense of obligation and is typically made in a solemn setting.