Signification
To give one's word to do something.
Contexte culturel
The phrase reflects the value of 'Al-Wafa' (Fulfillment). Breaking a promise is considered a major social shame (Aib). In the desert, where no written laws existed, 'cutting a promise' was the only way to ensure safety and trade between tribes. The Quran emphasizes keeping covenants. 'يقطع وعداً' is seen as a moral act that will be judged by God. While MSA is used, in daily life, people often say 'على راسي' (On my head) to signify they will fulfill a promise.
Use it for emphasis
If you want someone to really trust you, use 'أقطع لك وعداً' instead of just 'سأفعل' (I will do).
Don't over-promise
In Arab culture, breaking a 'cut' promise is taken very seriously. Only use it if you mean it!
Signification
To give one's word to do something.
Use it for emphasis
If you want someone to really trust you, use 'أقطع لك وعداً' instead of just 'سأفعل' (I will do).
Don't over-promise
In Arab culture, breaking a 'cut' promise is taken very seriously. Only use it if you mean it!
Grammar Check
Always remember the 'tanween' (an) sound at the end of 'wa'dan' in formal settings.
Dialect Tip
In Egypt, you might hear 'أخدت منه كلمة' (I took a word from him) which means the same thing as 'he made a promise to me.'
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing verb in the correct form (Present Tense).
أبي دائماً _______ وعداً لنا بالسفر في الصيف.
The correct collocation is 'يقطع وعداً'.
Which sentence is grammatically correct in formal Arabic?
Choose the correct sentence:
'وعداً' must be accusative (tanween fatha) and the preposition should be 'li-'.
Complete the dialogue with the appropriate phrase.
ليلى: هل ستساعدني في الانتقال؟ سامي: نعم، _______ أن أكون هناك في الساعة التاسعة.
Sammy is making a commitment to help Leila.
Match the phrase to the most likely situation.
Situation: A politician speaking to the public.
Politicians 'cut election promises' during campaigns.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Promise vs. Covenant
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesأبي دائماً _______ وعداً لنا بالسفر في الصيف.
The correct collocation is 'يقطع وعداً'.
Choose the correct sentence:
'وعداً' must be accusative (tanween fatha) and the preposition should be 'li-'.
ليلى: هل ستساعدني في الانتقال؟ سامي: نعم، _______ أن أكون هناك في الساعة التاسعة.
Sammy is making a commitment to help Leila.
Situation: A politician speaking to the public.
Politicians 'cut election promises' during campaigns.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
12 questionsYes, but it sounds a bit more serious and formal than just saying 'I promise.' It's common when you want to emphasize your sincerity.
No, that is an incorrect literal translation from English. Always use the verb 'يقطع' (to cut).
'Wa'd' is a general promise. 'Ahd' is a much stronger, more solemn covenant or oath, often used in religious or political contexts.
You say 'أقطع وعداً على نفسي' (I cut a promise upon myself).
Yes, it is Standard Arabic and is understood perfectly from Morocco to Iraq.
The opposite is 'يخلف وعداً' (to break a promise) or 'ينكث عهداً' (to violate a covenant).
The 'cut' metaphor comes from ancient rituals where a physical object or sacrifice was cut to finalize a deal, signifying it cannot be undone.
Yes, it is very appropriate for formal business correspondence to show commitment.
Yes, 'يقطع وعوداً' (He makes promises). Note that 'وعود' is the plural of 'وعد'.
No, but it is very direct. It's like saying 'Do you give me your word of honor?'
It is considered A2 because while the words are simple, the collocation is a specific linguistic pattern learners need to acquire.
It's a deep sound from the middle of the throat, like a slight tightening or a gagging reflex. Practice with a native speaker!
Expressions liées
وفى بوعده
builds onTo fulfill his promise
أخلف وعده
contrastTo break his promise
قطع عهداً
similarTo make a covenant
أعطى كلمة شرف
specialized formTo give a word of honor
نكث العهد
contrastTo violate a covenant
