commitment

The word “commitment” means a promise or pledge to do something, or a strong dedication to a cause, relationship, or goal. In plain terms, a serious promise or dedication to something, often involving time, effort, or money.

“Commitment” is pronounced kuh-MIHT-muhnt (/kəˈmɪtmənt/ in IPA).

Here is “commitment” used in a sentence: “Buying a house is a huge financial commitment.”

Words with a similar meaning to “commitment” include allegiance, charge, committal, consignment, dedication and devoir.

“Commitment” is a noun.

“Commitment” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

The two are close and often overlap. Commitment is the pledge or obligation to see something through, the decision to stay the course. Dedication is the energy and devotion you pour in along the way. You make a commitment to a goal, then show dedication by the effort and focus you give it.

Commitment shows up wherever people stick to something over time. Marrying a partner, training daily for a marathon, honouring a work contract, or sticking with a cause through hard times are all commitments. Each combines a promise to keep going with the sustained effort needed to follow through on it.

Commitment turns good intentions into results. Most worthwhile goals, whether a career, a relationship, or a skill, take time and setbacks to achieve, and it is commitment that keeps you going when motivation fades. It also builds trust: people rely on those who keep their promises and see things through to the end.

Commitment takes several forms. There are personal commitments, such as to a partner or family; professional ones, like a contract or a role; and commitments to a cause, goal, or belief. It can also be short-term, such as finishing a project, or lifelong, such as a marriage or a lasting vocation.