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March 5, 2013 3:09 pm
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)
1 Reply
March 5, 2013 11:09 pm
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