Promises are not made to be broken.
Promises are not made to be broken.
Meaning in plain English
The saying treats keeping a promise as its proper purpose. It values reliability rather than making assurances casually.
Example
Someone communicates a changed circumstance and seeks a fair revised agreement instead of quietly ignoring a commitment.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
A useful interpretation distinguishes an honest undertaking from a guarantee that circumstances never change. If fulfilment becomes impossible or an agreement causes harm, communication and a fair revision may be needed. The supplied absolute judgment of trustworthiness should not replace assessment of the particular commitment and response.
When to use it
Use it to discuss reliability alongside honest communication and reasonable limits.
Keep in mind
Not every unfulfilled promise proves indifference or requires carrying out a harmful agreement.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 969; PDF page 135
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