Translation guide
The English word "pledge" can refer to a formal promise, a vow, a financial commitment, or a token of something. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression based on the context.
A serious, often public, promise to do something or uphold a principle.
A general term for a vow or oath. Can be used in personal, formal, or ceremonial contexts.
He made a pledge to abstain from alcohol.
To exchange wedding vows.
A formal, often written pledge or covenant. Common in legal, organizational, or official contexts.
He signed a written pledge of confidentiality.
A public pledge or campaign promise, especially by politicians.
The prime minister pledged to cut taxes.
The verb phrase meaning 'to make a vow/pledge'.
She pledged revenge.
A commitment to give a certain amount of money, often to a charity or cause.
Literally 'promise of donation'. The most natural way to express a pledge to donate.
He made a pledge of one million yen.
Verb phrase: 'to pledge a donation'.
Loanword from English, used in fundraising contexts like 'pledge drive'. Not widely understood outside specific circles.
An object handed over as a guarantee or symbol of a promise.
Collateral or security for a loan. Also used figuratively.
He borrowed money using his house as a pledge.
A pawn or pledge. Used in pawnshop contexts.
A token or proof of something, often used in literary contexts for a pledge of love or loyalty.
A formal declaration of loyalty to a country, flag, or group.
In US college culture, a student who has accepted an invitation to join a Greek-letter organization.
This concept is specific to American culture. There is no direct Japanese equivalent. Use the English word 'pledge' (プレッジ) with an explanation, or describe the situation.
He is a pledge (prospective member) of the fraternity.
While 誓う (ちかう) means 'to vow', it is not always the best fit for 'to pledge'. In many cases, 約束する (やくそくする, 'to promise') or a more specific verb is more natural. For example, 'pledge support' is better as 支援を約束する (しえんを やくそくする) rather than 支援を誓う.
He pledged his support.
誓い (ちかい) implies a solemn, often lifelong or deeply personal vow, while 約束 (やくそく) is a general promise. Use 誓い for pledges like marriage vows or oaths of loyalty; use 約束 for everyday promises or financial pledges.
He pledged $100 to the charity.
Many companies pledged donations to the disaster area.
ラジオ局がプレッジドライブを実施した。
The radio station held a pledge drive.
To put a watch in pledge (pawn it).
愛の証として指輪を贈る。
Give a ring as a pledge of love.