Which one is correct?
"break a promise" or "break promise"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"break a promise" or "break promise"?

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This phrase is the standard way to refer to breaking a promise in formal or written contexts.

Examples:

She broke a promise she made to her friend.
Breaking a promise is not a good thing to do.

Alternatives:

break promise
violate a promise
fail to keep a promise
not keep a promise
go back on a promise

This phrase is often used in informal conversations or casual settings when referring to breaking a promise.

Examples:

I can't believe you broke promise again!
He always breaks promise when it comes to meeting deadlines.

Alternatives:

break a promise
violate a promise
fail to keep a promise
not keep a promise
go back on a promise

Both 'break promise' and 'break a promise' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Break promise' is more commonly used in informal or casual speech, while 'break a promise' is the standard and more formal way to express this idea.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

Answer 1

break a promise

This is the standard and more formal way to express the idea of breaking a promise.

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Answer 2

break promise

This phrase is correct but more commonly used in informal or casual speech.

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Which one is correct? "break a promise" or "break promise"?

break a promise

break promise

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Which one is correct?
"break a promise" or "break promise"?