lo prometo
/lo pɾometo/from spelling rules
In Spanish, "I promise" is translated as lo prometo.
The phrase is used to give a sincere or formal assurance that you will definitely do something. It is derived from the verb prometer, which means "to promise".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase lo prometo literally translates to "it/that I promise", where lo acts as the direct object meaning "it" or "that".
Which one should you use?
While lo prometo is a general way to say "I promise", you can use te lo prometo to make the phrase more personal by explicitly stating "I promise it to you".
How does it change in a sentence?
The word prometo is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb prometer. In Spanish, the subject yo (I) is typically omitted because it is already implied by the verb ending.
How do you pronounce it?
/lo pɾometo/
Did you know?
- The phrase prometer el cielo y la tierra means 'to promise heaven and earth'. It is used to describe someone who makes grand, exaggerated promises that they likely cannot fulfill.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, making a physical gesture like placing a hand over your heart while saying Lo prometo can add a layer of solemnity to your vow.
- In some contexts, particularly in literature or historical settings, a promise is referred to as a palabra. To give one's 'word' is to say dar mi palabra, which carries a heavy weight of personal honor.
Examples in context
- No le diré a nadie, lo prometo.I won't tell anyone, I promise.This sentence shows how to use lo prometo to reassure someone that you will keep a secret.Tatoeba #7745645 by carloschunga, translation #7084248 by Hybrid
- «¿Me lo prometes?» «Sí, te lo prometo.»"Do you promise?" "Yes, I promise."This example demonstrates a question and answer exchange using lo prometo.Tatoeba #10007938 by Shishir, translation #10009474 by DJ_Saidez
- ¡Lo prometo!I promise!This sentence shows the use of lo prometo as an emphatic exclamation.Tatoeba #4526792 by cueyayotl, translation #1357086 by sacredceltic
- Te prometo que cumpliré mi palabraI promise you I will keep my word
- Le aseguro que trabajaré arduamente en este proyectoI promise you I will work hard on this project
- No te preocupes, te lo prometoDon't worry, I promise you
- Palabra de honor, estaré allí mañanaWord of honor, I will be there tomorrow
- Prometo estudiar másI promise to study more
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel is worried that María will forget their dinner appointment.
- MaríaLlegaré a tiempo para la cena, lo prometo.I will arrive on time for dinner, I promise.
- DanielEspero que sí, porque no quiero esperar.I hope so, because I don't want to wait.
- MaríaNo te preocupes, Daniel, lo prometo.Don't worry, Daniel, I promise.
- DanielEstá bien, María, nos vemos luego.Alright, María, see you later.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
