Difference between swearing and promising

Last update: 22/05/2023

What is the difference between swearing and promising?

In the legal and juridical field, swear and promise These are terms that are frequently used. Although at first glance they seem synonymous, in reality they have important differences. which is necessary know to understand its correct use.

What does it mean to swear?

Swear It refers to making a statement in the presence of an authority or a court, in which it is stated that the truth is going to be told, usually holding one hand on a sacred book. This statement is binding, and the person making it agrees to tell the whole truth, willing to face the legal consequences if caught in a lie.

What does it mean to promise?

On the other hand, promise indicates the commitment to do something, be it an action or omission, without the need to make a statement in the presence of an authority. It is an agreement that is established between two parties, who undertake to comply with what was agreed.

When is each one used?

In summary, it can be said that to swear It is used in legal situations where making a statement under oath is required, especially in trials and hearings. On the other hand, promise It is used in verbal, written or contractual commitments in which agreements are established between two or more parties to carry out specific actions.

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Examples of oath and promise

Un ejemplo de oath It may be when a witness in a trial is called to testify. This person must make a promise to tell the truth, holding their hand on the Bible or any other holy book.

Instead, an example of promise It can be an employment contract, where the worker agrees to fulfill certain responsibilities and the employer agrees to pay him a certain salary in exchange for his work.

Conclusion

In short, both to swear as promise They are important terms that are used in different situations. It is essential to take into account the differences between the two to use them correctly according to the context in which they are needed.

  • To make a promise, the presence of an authority is not necessary
  • Instead, to make a oath, it is necessary to make a declaration in the presence of an authority