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Promise the past
Can promise be for the past ?
2013/03/05
10:09pm
10:09pm
RobertB
Posts: 273
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2012/02/20
2012/02/20
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Is it right to use 'I promise' as 'Believe me, it's true'?
I didn't lie to you. I promise!
I didn't gamble last night. I promise!
(Usually it's when denying that one did something bad)
2013/03/06
6:09am
6:09am
Glenn
Posts: 1399
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2009/03/03
2009/03/03
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The online Compact OED lists this use as informal.
I promise (phrase)
I promise (or I promise you)
informal used for emphasis, especially so as to reassure, encourage, or threaten someone:oh, I’m not joking, I promise you