Grammar tenses

by Mina
(Egypt)

I want to know if we can use "I promise..." with the simple present or with future only.

Jan 26, 2011

Answer
by: Ola Zur

Hi Mina,

Let's look at the definition of the word "promise":
"To tell someone that you will definitely do something or that something will happen."

So when someone promises something, he is usually talking about the future. Here are some examples:
"I will return, I promise."
"I promise you will never have to see him again."
"I promise to finish this by tomorrow."

Now, "I promise" is also used as an emphasis. For example:
"It's doesn't hurt, I promise you!"
"I promise you, you won't regret this?"
"Did you steal the money?"
"I promise you that I didn't."

Ola Zur is the editor of www.really-learn-english.com, an illustrated guide to English.

Grammar tenses

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