2promise verb
promises; promised; promis·ing 1 : to tell someone that you will definitely do something or that something will definitely happen in the future [+ obj] ▪ He promised to buy his son a new bicycle. = He promised his son a new bicycle. = He promised a new bicycle to his son. ▪ Promise me that you won't tell anyone. ▪ I can't promise you that I'll be able to go, but I'll do my best. ▪ The governor promised that the prisoners would receive a fair trial. ▪ She promised to announce the results tomorrow. ▪ International organizations have promised aid. ▪ I promise to be careful. [no obj] ▪ You always promise, but you never do what you say you will. ▪ “I won't tell anyone.” “Promise?” “Yes, I promise.” 2 [+ obj] somewhat formal : to make (something) seem likely : to show signs of (something that is likely or expected to happen)
▪ Those gray skies promise rain. ◊Something that promises to be good, exciting, etc., is expected to be good, exciting, etc.
▪ The race promises to be the most exciting of the season. ▪ It promises to be a good game. [=it should be a good game]
▪ Those gray skies promise rain. ◊Something that promises to be good, exciting, etc., is expected to be good, exciting, etc.
▪ The race promises to be the most exciting of the season. ▪ It promises to be a good game. [=it should be a good game]
I (can) promise you
— used to emphasize a statement ▪ He's only concerned about himself, I promise [=assure] you. ▪ I can promise you, you won't be disappointed.
promise (someone) the stars/moon/earth/world
: to promise (someone) that you will do or give something great or wonderful even though it is not possible
▪ He promised her the stars and the moon, but he never even bought her flowers. ▪ Politicians will promise the earth when they're trying to get elected.
▪ He promised her the stars and the moon, but he never even bought her flowers. ▪ Politicians will promise the earth when they're trying to get elected.
