pledge to defend

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pledge to defend" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a commitment or promise to protect or support someone or something, often in a formal or serious context. Example: "As a citizen, I pledge to defend my country and uphold its values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Instead, Nato members should pledge to defend any Middle Eastern state that is attacked with nuclear weapons.

The Guardian - Opinion

Following the United States model, militia leaders told me last month that Libyan army officers should pledge to defend the constitution, not the head of state.

The New York Times

Yes, the United States has an important mission: to stay true to the moral values we pledge to defend at home and abroad.

The New York Times

One important but less-noticed element of the security negotiations has been Iraq's effort to extract an American pledge to defend the government against foreign or domestic aggression.

The New York Times

This is a warning to anyone who assumed that [European Central Bank head] Mario Draghi had quelled the crisis with his pledge to defend the euro.

The Guardian - Business

China, thinks Paul Beaver of the Jane's defence group, would see this as a big step towards setting up a theatre missile defence for Taiwan, perhaps even as a pledge to defend Taiwan in the event of an invasion.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Van Dorn pledged to defend the city to the death.

The New York Times

Later, when the candidate himself pledged to defend L.G.B.T.Q.

The New Yorker

Residents pledged to defend their properties and dignity with their lives.

The New York Times

Kennedy responded by pledging to defend West Berlin and calling up 250,000 reservists.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The U.S.S.R. reaped a propaganda harvest and pledged to defend Cuba in the future.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pledge to defend", ensure the object of defense is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, "pledge to defend" + "the constitution" or "pledge to defend" + "the rights of citizens".

Common error

Avoid using "pledge to defend" in overly casual or trivial situations. This phrase carries a strong sense of commitment and is more appropriate for serious or formal declarations. Consider alternatives like "promise" or "agree" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "pledge to defend" is to act as a verb phrase expressing a firm commitment or promise to protect or support something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically correct. Many examples from Ludwig show this phrase in contexts involving national security or moral values.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pledge to defend" is a common expression used to convey a strong commitment to protecting or supporting something. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. It's often found in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki articles, suggesting a broad applicability but is also suited for formal contexts. When using "pledge to defend", be sure to clearly define what is being defended to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "promise to protect" or "vow to safeguard", each carrying slightly different nuances. Remember that while common, it should be used in serious, rather than trivial contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Promise to protect

Focuses on a promise specifically related to offering protection.

Vow to safeguard

Emphasizes the act of ensuring safety and security.

Undertake to shield

Suggests a proactive effort to guard against harm.

Commit to preserve

Highlights the maintenance and continuation of something valuable.

Guarantee to uphold

Focuses on maintaining and defending principles or standards.

Swear to support

Implies a formal and solemn declaration of allegiance and assistance.

Pledge allegiance to

Emphasizes loyalty and commitment to a cause or entity.

Affirm commitment to

Highlights a declared dedication towards a cause.

Solemnly vow to

Emphasizes the serious and sincere nature of the commitment.

Give an undertaking to

Suggests a formal assurance to fulfill a responsibility.

FAQs

How to use "pledge to defend" in a sentence?

The phrase "pledge to defend" is used to express a formal promise or commitment to protect something. For example, "The soldier made a "pledge to defend" the nation's borders".

What can I say instead of "pledge to defend"?

You can use alternatives like "promise to protect", "vow to safeguard", or "commit to preserve" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "pledge to defend" and "promise to protect"?

"Pledge to defend" often carries a more formal and solemn tone than "promise to protect". A pledge implies a deeper commitment, often made publicly or officially.

Is "pledge to defend" only used in military or political contexts?

While often used in military or political contexts, "pledge to defend" can also apply to other situations where a strong commitment to protect something is made. For example, one might "pledge to defend" the environment or the rights of others.