約束を守る
yakusoku o mamoru
keep a promise
Wörtlich: {"\u7d04\u675f":"promise","\u3092":"object particle","\u5b88\u308b":"to protect, to guard, to keep"}
In 15 Sekunden
- Means to be a person of your word.
- Shows reliability and trustworthiness.
- Use for fulfilling agreements and commitments.
- It's about valuing your commitments.
Bedeutung
Diese Phrase bedeutet, dass Sie zuverlässig und vertrauenswürdig sind und Ihre Verpflichtungen respektieren. Es geht darum, sein Wort aktiv zu schützen und zu beweisen, dass man jemand ist, auf den sich andere verlassen können.
Wichtige Beispiele
3 von 12Texting a friend about plans
明日のランチ、絶対行くね！約束を守るよ！
I'll definitely go to lunch tomorrow! I'll keep my promise!
Instagram caption about a project
クライアントとの約束を守るため、徹夜で頑張りました。#プロ意識
I worked through the night to keep my promise to the client. #Professionalism
Job interview follow-up email
面接で申し上げた通り、提出書類は本日中に確認し、約束を守ります。
As mentioned in the interview, I will review the submitted documents today and keep my promise.
Kultureller Hintergrund
The concept of `約束を守る` is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, emphasizing harmony (`和` - wa) and social responsibility. Historically, in a society that relied heavily on trust and community, keeping one's word was paramount for smooth social functioning. This value is reflected in the phrase's literal meaning of 'protecting' a promise, suggesting it's a precious thing to be guarded.
The Power of 'Mamoru'
Think of `守る` (mamoru) as 'guarding' your promise. It's not just passive; it implies active protection of your word. This adds a layer of seriousness!
Face and Trust
In Japan, keeping promises is crucial for maintaining 'face' (`メンツ` - mentsu) and building trust. Failing to do so can be seen as a serious social misstep.
In 15 Sekunden
- Means to be a person of your word.
- Shows reliability and trustworthiness.
- Use for fulfilling agreements and commitments.
- It's about valuing your commitments.
What It Means
This phrase is all about your integrity. When you 約束を守る, you're showing that your word is solid. It's more than just doing what you said. It's about valuing the commitment itself. It builds trust and shows respect. People see you as dependable. It's a core part of being a good friend or colleague. It carries a sense of honor and responsibility. It’s the opposite of being flaky or unreliable. It's the vibe of someone who means what they say.
How To Use It
Use 約束を守る when talking about fulfilling a commitment. You can use it to describe yourself or someone else. It works in both positive and negative contexts. For example, you can say you *will* keep a promise. Or you can say someone *failed* to keep one. It's a versatile phrase. It fits many situations. Think about agreements, plans, or even casual assurances. It’s a fundamental building block of relationships. It’s like the glue that holds social interactions together.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine you told a friend you'd help them move. You show up on moving day. You kept your promise. Or maybe you promised your boss you'd finish a report by Friday. You submit it on time. You 約束を守る. On the flip side, if you forget your friend's birthday party you promised to attend, you didn't keep your promise. It's about the action matching the word. It’s quite straightforward, really. No hidden tricks here, thankfully!
When To Use It
Use this phrase when discussing reliability. Talk about it when building trust. Mention it when someone follows through on their word. It's great for praising someone's character. You can use it in formal settings, like business. It's also perfect for casual chats with friends. Think about any situation involving an agreement. Did someone keep their word? Then they 約束を守る. It's a universally understood concept. We all appreciate someone who keeps their word. It makes life so much easier, doesn't it?
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using 約束を守る for things that aren't actual promises. Don't use it for general wishes or hopes. If you *hope* to see someone, that's not a promise. If you *plan* to go somewhere, it might not be a firm commitment. It's best for clear agreements. Don't overuse it for trivial matters. It can sound a bit dramatic if applied to minor things. Like promising to bring a snack. Unless it's a *very* important snack, maybe. Keep it for commitments that matter.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mix up 守る with other verbs. They might use する (suru - to do) incorrectly. For example, saying 約束をする (yakusoku o suru) means 'to make a promise'. But you need 守る to say you *kept* it. Another mistake is using the wrong verb for 'breaking' a promise. You don't 'break' it like a toy. You 'fail' or 'neglect' it.
約束を破る (yakusoku o yaburu)
✓約束を守らない (yakusoku o mamoranai) or 約束を破る (yakusoku o yaburu) is actually correct for breaking a promise. My bad! Let's fix that. The real mistake is using する for keeping.
約束をする
✓約束を守る (for keeping)
約束を壊す (yakusoku o kowasu)
✓約束を破る (yakusoku o yaburu) (for breaking)
Similar Expressions
There are other ways to talk about promises. 約束を果たす (yakusoku o hatasu) means 'to fulfill a promise'. It's very similar to 守る. 言ったことを実行する (itta koto o jikkou suru) means 'to carry out what one said'. This is more about action. 信義を守る (shingi o mamoru) is more formal. It means 'to keep faith' or 'uphold honor'. It's a higher level of commitment. 約束を守る is the most common and versatile. It’s the everyday workhorse.
Common Variations
Sometimes you'll hear 約束を守ってくれてありがとう (yakusoku o mamotte kurete arigatou). This means 'thank you for keeping your promise'. It’s a nice thing to say! You can also negate it: 約束を守れなかった (yakusoku o mamorenakatta) - 'I couldn't keep my promise'. This is a common apology. People often add ごめんね (gomen ne - sorry) to it. It softens the blow. It shows you regret not fulfilling it.
Memory Trick
Picture a knight guarding a castle. The castle represents the 約束 (promise). The knight is the verb 守る (mamoru - to protect). He's fiercely protecting the promise! He won't let anyone breach its walls. This knight is super reliable. He always keeps the promise safe. So, 守る = guard the promise. Easy peasy, right?
Quick FAQ
Is 約束を守る formal or informal? It's pretty neutral. You can use it in most situations. What's the opposite? It's 約束を破る (yakusoku o yaburu) - to break a promise. Can I use it for social media? Yes, absolutely! A caption like 'Worked hard to 約束を守る for my clients!' works great. It shows professionalism. It's a phrase that connects deeply. It's about character.
Nutzungshinweise
The phrase `約束を守る` (yakusoku o mamoru) is neutral in formality and widely applicable. While the literal meaning involves 'protecting' a promise, its practical usage aligns directly with the English 'to keep a promise'. Be mindful not to confuse it with `約束をする` (to make a promise) or `約束を破る` (to break a promise), as these are distinct actions.
The Power of 'Mamoru'
Think of `守る` (mamoru) as 'guarding' your promise. It's not just passive; it implies active protection of your word. This adds a layer of seriousness!
Face and Trust
In Japan, keeping promises is crucial for maintaining 'face' (`メンツ` - mentsu) and building trust. Failing to do so can be seen as a serious social misstep.
Don't Confuse With 'Making' a Promise
Remember, `約束をする` (yakusoku o suru) means 'to make a promise'. You need `守る` (mamoru) to talk about *keeping* it. Mixing these up is a common pitfall!
Positive Reinforcement
When someone keeps their promise to you, saying `約束を守ってくれてありがとう` (yakusoku o mamotte kurete arigatou - Thank you for keeping your promise) goes a long way! It reinforces their reliability.
Beispiele
12明日のランチ、絶対行くね！約束を守るよ！
I'll definitely go to lunch tomorrow! I'll keep my promise!
Using `守るよ` adds a friendly, affirmative tone to the commitment.
クライアントとの約束を守るため、徹夜で頑張りました。#プロ意識
I worked through the night to keep my promise to the client. #Professionalism
Shows dedication and professionalism in a public context.
面接で申し上げた通り、提出書類は本日中に確認し、約束を守ります。
As mentioned in the interview, I will review the submitted documents today and keep my promise.
Formal phrasing used to confirm a commitment made during the interview process.
おもちゃを片付けたら、公園に連れて行ってあげるって約束を守るよ。
I'll keep my promise to take you to the park once you tidy up your toys.
Reassuring a child by emphasizing the promise will be kept.
ダイエットするって言ったのに、ケーキ食べちゃった。約束を守れなかったよ、ハハ！
I said I'd go on a diet, but I ate cake. I couldn't keep my promise, haha!
Lighthearted admission of failing to keep a personal promise.
あなたが約束を守ってくれて、本当に助かりました。ありがとう！
It was a huge help that you kept your promise. Thank you!
Expressing sincere appreciation for someone's reliability.
✗ 明日、友達と会う約束をする。
✗ Tomorrow, I will make a promise to meet my friend.
This sentence means 'to make a promise', not 'to keep one'. The verb `する` is for initiating the promise.
✗ 彼の約束はいつも壊れる。
✗ His promises always break.
`壊れる` (kowareru) means 'to break' physically, like an object. For promises, `破る` (yaburu) is used for 'breaking' or failing to keep.
弊社としては、契約内容を厳守し、お客様との約束を守ることを最優先いたします。
As our company, we prioritize strictly adhering to the contract terms and keeping our promises to customers.
Formal business language emphasizing commitment and adherence to agreements.
このドラマ、毎週楽しみにしてる！制作陣は視聴者の約束を守ってるね。
I look forward to this drama every week! The production team is keeping its promise to the viewers.
Referring to the show's consistent quality or plot delivery as fulfilling a promise to the audience.
遅れてごめん！約束の時間に間に合うように頑張ったんだけど、間に合わなかった。でも、次は必ず守るよ。
Sorry I'm late! I tried hard to make it by the promised time, but I couldn't. But I'll definitely keep it next time.
Acknowledging failure to keep a time-specific promise and vowing to do better.
大丈夫だよ。君ならきっと約束を守れる。信じてるから。
It's okay. You can definitely keep your promise. I believe in you.
Offering support and expressing confidence in someone's ability to fulfill their commitment.
Teste dich selbst
Fill in the blank with the correct verb to complete the sentence.
The adverb `必ず` (kanarazu) means 'surely' or 'definitely', fitting the context of keeping a promise.
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the phrase for 'keeping a promise'.
Which sentence correctly expresses 'keeping a promise'?
Option C uses `守った` (mamotta), the past tense of `守る` (mamoru), correctly meaning 'kept a promise'. Option A & D use `します` (shimasu) for 'making a promise', and Option B uses `壊しました` (kowashimashita), which is incorrect for promises.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The verb `します` (shimasu) means 'to do' or 'to make' (a promise), while `守ります` (mamorimasu) means 'to keep' or 'to protect' (a promise). The context requires keeping the promise.
Translate the sentence into Japanese.
While `約束をします` (yakusoku o shimasu) means 'to make a promise', in this context, confirming completion implies keeping a prior commitment. A more direct translation focusing on *keeping* the promise would be `明日までにこの仕事を終える約束を守ります` (Asu made ni kono shigoto o oeru yakusoku o mamorimasu).
Choose the best word to complete the sentence about fulfilling a promise.
`果たす` (hatasu) means 'to fulfill' or 'to carry out', which is a close synonym for keeping a promise.
Select the most natural way to say 'Thank you for keeping your promise'.
Which is the most natural way to thank someone for keeping their promise?
Option C correctly uses `守ってくれて` (mamotte kurete), the `-te` form of `守る` plus the auxiliary verb `くれる` (kureru), indicating gratitude for an action done for the speaker.
Identify and correct the grammatical error.
While `守らなかった` (mamoranakatta - did not keep) is grammatically correct, `守れなかった` (mamorenakatta - could not keep) often sounds more polite and less accusatory when apologizing for failing to fulfill a promise.
Arrange the words to form a natural Japanese sentence.
This sentence structure means 'Because I will definitely keep my promise.' The adverb `必ず` (kanarazu) modifies the verb phrase `約束を守る` (yakusoku o mamoru).
Translate the following sentence into Japanese, focusing on the nuance of integrity.
This uses a more formal, definitional structure. `誠実さ` (seijitsu-sa) means 'sincerity' or 'integrity', and `保つ` (tatsumu) means 'to maintain'. The phrase `約束を守ること` (yakusoku o mamoru koto) nominalizes the action of keeping a promise.
Match the Japanese phrase with its closest English meaning.
These phrases all relate to promises, but differ in action: `守る` (keep), `果たす` (fulfill), `破る` (break), and `取り付ける` (secure/obtain).
Complete the sentence with the appropriate expression.
The sentence structure 'even if it's difficult, I won't break a ___ I once made' strongly implies the noun 'promise' (`約束`).
Arrange the words into a coherent sentence.
This sentence translates to 'If you can't keep (your promise), please tell me early.' It's a polite request often used in situations where commitments might be difficult to meet.
🎉 Ergebnis: /12
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Formality Spectrum for 約束を守る
Casual chat with close friends, maybe slightly exaggerated.
マジで約束守るから！(Maji de yakusoku mamoru kara!) - I'll totally keep my promise!
Everyday conversations, texting, general use.
明日の件、約束守ります。(Ashita no ken, yakusoku mamorimasu.) - I'll keep my promise regarding tomorrow's matter.
Business settings, official statements, showing respect.
お客様との約束は必ず守らせていただきます。(Okyakusama to no yakusoku wa kanarazu mamorasetitadakimasu.) - We will absolutely ensure we keep our promises to our customers.
Where Do You Use 約束を守る?
Texting a friend
今日の約束、忘れてないよ！
Job Interview
ご期待に沿えるよう、約束を守ります。
Family Discussion
子供との約束はちゃんと守らないとね。
Business Meeting
契約内容の約束を守ることは最優先です。
Social Media Post
応援してくれた皆さんへの約束を守れて嬉しい！
Apologizing
約束を守れなくてごめんなさい。
約束を守る vs. Related Phrases
Scenarios for Keeping Promises
Personal Commitments
- • Meeting friends
- • Helping family
- • Keeping a secret
Professional Agreements
- • Meeting deadlines
- • Client agreements
- • Job offers
Verbal Assurances
- • Saying you'll call back
- • Promising to arrive on time
- • Giving your word
Moral Obligations
- • Keeping oaths
- • Honoring commitments
- • Acting with integrity
Aufgabensammlung
12 Aufgaben友達との約束を ___ 守る。
The adverb `必ず` (kanarazu) means 'surely' or 'definitely', fitting the context of keeping a promise.
Which sentence correctly expresses 'keeping a promise'?
Option C uses `守った` (mamotta), the past tense of `守る` (mamoru), correctly meaning 'kept a promise'. Option A & D use `します` (shimasu) for 'making a promise', and Option B uses `壊しました` (kowashimashita), which is incorrect for promises.
Finde und korrigiere den Fehler:
明日、会議の約束をします。
The verb `します` (shimasu) means 'to do' or 'to make' (a promise), while `守ります` (mamorimasu) means 'to keep' or 'to protect' (a promise). The context requires keeping the promise.
I promise I will finish this work by tomorrow.
Hinweise: Use the verb for 'to promise' or 'to keep a promise'., Consider the nuance: are you making the promise or confirming you'll keep it?
While `約束をします` (yakusoku o shimasu) means 'to make a promise', in this context, confirming completion implies keeping a prior commitment. A more direct translation focusing on *keeping* the promise would be `明日までにこの仕事を終える約束を守ります` (Asu made ni kono shigoto o oeru yakusoku o mamorimasu).
彼の言葉はいつも確かで、約束を ___。
`果たす` (hatasu) means 'to fulfill' or 'to carry out', which is a close synonym for keeping a promise.
Which is the most natural way to thank someone for keeping their promise?
Option C correctly uses `守ってくれて` (mamotte kurete), the `-te` form of `守る` plus the auxiliary verb `くれる` (kureru), indicating gratitude for an action done for the speaker.
Finde und korrigiere den Fehler:
約束を守らなかったことを深く謝罪いたします。
While `守らなかった` (mamoranakatta - did not keep) is grammatically correct, `守れなかった` (mamorenakatta - could not keep) often sounds more polite and less accusatory when apologizing for failing to fulfill a promise.
Ordne die Worter in der richtigen Reihenfolge:
Klicke auf die Worter oben, um den Satz zu bilden
This sentence structure means 'Because I will definitely keep my promise.' The adverb `必ず` (kanarazu) modifies the verb phrase `約束を守る` (yakusoku o mamoru).
Maintaining one's integrity means keeping promises.
Hinweise: Think about how to express 'maintaining integrity'., Use the `〜とは〜ことである` structure for definition.
This uses a more formal, definitional structure. `誠実さ` (seijitsu-sa) means 'sincerity' or 'integrity', and `保つ` (tatsumu) means 'to maintain'. The phrase `約束を守ること` (yakusoku o mamoru koto) nominalizes the action of keeping a promise.
Ordne jedem Element links seinen Partner rechts zu:
These phrases all relate to promises, but differ in action: `守る` (keep), `果たす` (fulfill), `破る` (break), and `取り付ける` (secure/obtain).
たとえ困難でも、一度した ___ は破らない。
The sentence structure 'even if it's difficult, I won't break a ___ I once made' strongly implies the noun 'promise' (`約束`).
Ordne die Worter in der richtigen Reihenfolge:
Klicke auf die Worter oben, um den Satz zu bilden
This sentence translates to 'If you can't keep (your promise), please tell me early.' It's a polite request often used in situations where commitments might be difficult to meet.
🎉 Ergebnis: /12
Video-Tutorials
Finde Video-Tutorials zu dieser Redewendung auf YouTube.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
18 FragenLiterally, 約束 (yakusoku) means 'promise', and 守る (mamoru) means 'to protect' or 'to guard'. So, it translates to 'to protect/guard a promise'. This imagery emphasizes the value and importance placed on commitments in Japanese culture.
It's quite versatile and falls into the neutral category. You can comfortably use it in most everyday situations, from casual chats with friends to more formal business contexts. Its politeness can be adjusted slightly with verb endings like 守ります (mamorimasu) for more formality.
The direct opposite is 約束を破る (yakusoku o yaburu), which means 'to break a promise'. You might also hear 約束を破棄する (yakusoku o haki suru) in very formal or legal contexts, but 破る is the most common antonym.
Absolutely! It's perfect for social media captions. For instance, you could post about achieving a personal goal by saying 約束を守れて嬉しいです (I'm happy I could keep my promise) or mention professional reliability like クライアントとの約束を守ります (I will keep my promise to the client).
You can say 約束を守れませんでした (yakusoku o mamoremasen deshita) for a past failure, or 約束を守れなかった (yakusoku o mamorenakatta) for a slightly more conversational tone. Adding ごめんなさい (gomen nasai - I'm sorry) is highly recommended!
約束を守る is the general term for keeping a promise. 約束を果たす (yakusoku o hatasu) implies fulfilling a promise, often a more significant or challenging one. Think of it as successfully completing the task promised.
Yes, it's highly valued. Japanese society often emphasizes reliability, trustworthiness, and maintaining harmony (和 - wa). Keeping one's word is seen as a fundamental aspect of good character and social responsibility, essential for smooth relationships.
You can still use 約束を守る. For example, 'Coffee tomorrow, I'll be there! 約束守るよ！' (Yakusoku mamoru yo!). While the phrase itself isn't inherently formal, context and tone matter. For very casual, fleeting things, sometimes just confirming attendance is enough without explicitly using the phrase.
A sincere apology would be 約束を破ってしまい、本当に申し訳ありません (Yakusoku o yabutte shimai, hontou ni moushiwake arimasen - I am truly sorry for breaking my promise). You could also use 約束を守れなくてごめんなさい (Yakusoku o mamorenakute gomen nasai - Sorry I couldn't keep my promise) for a slightly less formal apology.
Generally, 約束を守る is universally understood across Japan. While specific politeness levels or slang might vary regionally, the core meaning and usage of this phrase remain consistent. It's a standard part of the Japanese language.
Yes, 守る (mamoru) is a versatile verb! It can mean 'to protect' (e.g., 国を守る - kuni o mamoru - protect the country), 'to defend' (e.g., 城を守る - shiro o mamoru - defend the castle), or 'to abide by' rules (e.g., 規則を守る - kisoku o mamoru - abide by the rules). Its core idea is safeguarding or adhering to something.
A frequent error is confusing 約束をする (to make a promise) with 約束を守る (to keep a promise). Learners might use 約束をする when they mean they are going to fulfill an existing promise, leading to confusion about whether they are initiating or honoring a commitment.
You can add adverbs! For example, きっちり約束を守る (kicchiri yakusoku o mamoru) means 'to keep a promise meticulously/perfectly'. 必ず約束を守る (kanarazu yakusoku o mamoru) emphasizes 'definitely keeping' it. These add extra nuance.
This translates to 'You don't have to keep that promise.' The particle なんか (nanka) often downplays the noun (約束), suggesting the promise isn't that important, or the speaker is releasing the other person from the obligation. It's a way of saying 'don't worry about it'.
The act of 約束を守る directly builds a reputation for integrity. By consistently protecting and honoring your commitments (守る), you demonstrate trustworthiness and reliability, which are key components of personal integrity.
Yes, definitely! A New Year's resolution is a type of promise you make to yourself. You could say 今年の目標は、約束を守ることです (Kotoshi no mokuhyou wa, yakusoku o mamoru koto desu - My goal this year is to keep my promises/resolutions).
You'd typically use the negative form, 約束を守らない (yakusoku o mamoranai), meaning 'doesn't keep promises'. You could also say 約束を破る人 (yakusoku o yaburu hito - a person who breaks promises) to describe them.
While 守る literally means 'protect/guard', in the context of 約束を守る, it functions identically to 'keep a promise' in English. The 'protecting' nuance simply adds cultural weight, suggesting the promise is something valuable that requires active effort to maintain.
Verwandte Redewendungen
約束を破る
antonymto break a promise
This phrase is the direct opposite of `約束を守る`, describing the failure to fulfill a commitment rather than upholding it.
約束を果たす
synonymto fulfill a promise
`果たす` (hatasu) implies completing or carrying out a promise, often a significant one, making it a close synonym to `守る` (mamoru) but with a nuance of completion.
言ったことを実行する
related topicto carry out what one said
This phrase focuses on the action following words, emphasizing follow-through, which is closely related to the concept of keeping promises.
信義を守る
formal versionto uphold honor/faithfulness
This is a more formal and profound expression than `約束を守る`, emphasizing integrity and faithfulness in a broader, often moral or ethical, sense.
約束をする
related topicto make a promise
This phrase is the prerequisite action to keeping a promise; you must first `make` (`する` - suru) a promise before you can `keep` (`守る` - mamoru) it.
言質を取る
related topicto get someone to commit to something
This relates to the act of securing a promise or commitment from someone, which is the initial step before the promise can either be kept or broken.
