pledge - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
pledge Word Meanings
- a solemn promise
- a security for a loan
- to make a serious promise
pledge Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
pledge Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/plɛdʒ/
US
/plɛdʒ/
pledge Word Etymology
pledge = pledg(e) (past tense of 'plege') + -e (noun suffix). Historical origin: Old French 'plege' → Middle English. Memory image: Visualize someone lifting a hand and making a sincere promise in a heartfelt manner.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip a small card and pull it toward me, letting the moment tighten like a pledge taking shape in my chest. The page, the name, the weight of the moment shift as I push the decision forward, and I set my shoulders against doubt. It feels steady, like I am holding a line taut under pressure, a pledge I intend to keep. In real life, this move usually frames what I will do next—stand by someone, or back a loan with a security.
Real Context
pledge can be a solemn promise or commitment; as a noun it also means something given as security for a loan; as a verb it means to make a serious promise or commit oneself to a course of action. In finance, a pledge is collateral that the borrower puts up to secure the loan. The word comes from Old French plege, through Middle English; a memory image is envisioning someone raising a hand and speaking with heart and sincerity. Learners often confuse pledge with promise or guarantee, and misapply the loan-security sense to everyday promises. A simple guide: if you can swap in 'promise' without changing meaning, you are likely using the wrong sense; if you need a security item, you are in the pledge sense.
Usage Reminders
- - Use pledge as a formal noun or a verb for serious commitments.
- - For loans, remember pledge often means collateral, not just a promise.
- - Distinguish between pledge and promise by checking the object after the verb.
- - Pledge drives use the noun sense of commitment in fundraising.
- - In everyday speech, people prefer 'promise' over 'pledge' for casual talks.
Common Misconceptions
- Pledge always means money or collateral.
- Pledge is only a noun.
- Pledge and promise are always interchangeable.
- Pledge cannot be used with verbs like 'to' or 'of' correctly.
- In informal speech, pledge is used where 'promise' would be better.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, pledge often signals formality and a stronger sense of obligation than a casual 'promise'; the financial sense as collateral is less common in everyday speech.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main senses: pledge as a solemn promise (noun/verb) and pledge as collateral.
- Practice comparing with promise and guarantee to feel the nuance.
- Notice typical collocations: pledge of allegiance, pledge to donate, pledge a asset.
- Pronounce 'pledge' with /dʒ/ at the end; it rhymes with 'edge.'
- Use formal contexts (pledge drives, formal commitments) to sound natural.
- Create paired sentences: one using the promise sense, one using collateral.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'pledge' mean?
A.A pencil
B.A car
C.A tree
D.A promise
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'pledge' correctly?
A.He made a pledge to donate
B.She drove a pledge
C.The cat ate a pledge
D.I see a pledge
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the synonym for 'pledge':
A.Abandon
B.Drop
C.Forget
D.Commitment
Step 4: Opposite Words
Choose the opposite of 'pledge':
A.Vow
B.Break
C.Follow through
D.Fulfill
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone make a pledge?
A.After winning a race
B.Before watching a movie
C.To donate to a cause
D.While sleeping
Related Listening
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