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Promise the past

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(@Anonymous)
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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)

 

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(@Anonymous)
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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

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