prōmissum
neuter
The English word 'promise' (as a vow) is translated into Latin as prōmissum. Wiktionary also lists promissiō.
Meaning: vow (noun)
Ways to say it
| Latin | Note |
|---|---|
| prōmissum | neuter |
| promissiō | feminine |
In Latin, the noun used for a promise depends on whether you are focusing on the thing being promised or the act of promising. prōmissum is used to refer to the specific thing or object that has been promised. If you wish to refer to a formal promise or solemn pledge, you might also use the noun sacramentum.
What does it mean word for word?
The neuter noun prōmissum is derived from the verb prōmittō and literally means 'a thing sent forth' or 'a thing promised'.
Which one should you use?
prōmissum refers to the thing promised (the vow itself), whereas promissiō refers to the act or process of making the promise.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
prōmissum is a neuter noun. promissiō is a feminine noun that refers to the abstract concept or the formal act of making a promise.
Did you know?
- In Roman law, a stipulatio was a formal type of promise that required a specific question and answer to be legally binding.
- The verb prōmittō can also mean 'to let go' or 'to release', as it literally describes sending something forward.
- While prōmissum is a general vow, the word sacramentum was specifically a military oath of allegiance sworn by Roman soldiers to their general.
Examples in context
- Firmo meo sacramento tibi fidem do.I give you my trust by my sacred promise.
- Promitto tibi, adiuvabo te semper.I promise you, I will always help you.
- Prōmissum eius est certum.His promise is certain.
- Prōmissum vacuum est.The promise is empty.
- Prōmissum servāre dēbēs.You must keep your promise.
Example conversation
Two friends discussing a deal they made.
- AureliaGai, prōmissum tuum ubi est?Gaius, where is your promise?
- GaiusHanc rem mox faciam, Aurelia.I will do this thing soon, Aurelia.
- AureliaSōlum prōmissum nōn satis est.A promise alone is not enough.
- GaiusCrās prōmissum servābō.Tomorrow I will keep my promise.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “promise” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
