proverb · Words worth keeping
There is no virtue in an un-kept promise.
There is no virtue in an un-kept promise.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
An unkept promise denied virtue distinguishes an admirable intention from an obligation actually fulfilled. The saying asks what a commitment produces.
Example
Someone explains why a commitment cannot be met and discusses a fair way to address the consequences.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The absolute wording does not establish that every failure has the same cause or erases a person’s worth. Circumstances can prevent fulfilment. A useful application checks what was promised, communicates changes honestly and considers repair rather than treating a promise itself as sufficient evidence of reliability.
When to use it
Use it to connect commitments with honest follow-through and repair.
Keep in mind
No identical blame for every unmet promise or total judgment of a person is established.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
Denmark
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- Denmark