About "promise"
How to Split "promise" into Syllables
The word promise is divided into 3 syllables: pro·mi·se. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- pro — 1st syllable
- mi — 2nd syllable
- se — 3rd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of promise:
- IPA: /ˈpɹɒmɪs/
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📖 Definitions
- promise (countable and uncountable, plural promises)
- 1668 July 3rd, James Dalrymple, “Thomas Rue contra Andrew Houſtoun” in The Deciſions of the Lords of Council & Seſſion I (Edinburgh, 1683), pages 547–548
📚 Word Origin & History
From Middle English promis, promisse, borrowed from Old French promesse, from Medieval Latin prōmissa, Latin prōmissum (“a promise”), feminine and neuter past participles of prōmittō (“I send forth, I say beforehand, I promise”), from pro (“forth”) + mittere (“to send”); see mission. Compare admit, commit, permit, etc. Displaced native ġehātan (“to promise”) and ġehāt (“a promise”).
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down promise into syllables helps with:
- Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
- Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
- Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
- Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
- Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness
📊 Similar Words Comparison
Compare promise with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| promise | 3 | pro·mi·se |
| prance | 2 | pran-ce |
| permanency | 4 | per-ma-nen-cy |
| pharmacy | 3 | phar-ma-cy |
| priming | 2 | prim-ing |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to promise: