break one's word

Idioms and Phrases

Violate or fail to observe a promise or contract one has made. For example, You can trust him implicitly; I've never known him to break his word . [c. a.d. 1000]

Example Sentences

And it's downright wicked to break one's word.

From Project Gutenberg

"One ought never to break one's word," he remarked to Gourgaud, "and I despise traitors."

From Project Gutenberg

"One ought never to break one's word," he remarked to Gourgaud, "and I despise traitors."

From Project Gutenberg

One of these—pride in appearing not to need to break one's word, he supposes too rare to be presumed upon.

From Project Gutenberg

To break one's word, or in any way degrade one's race.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• ignore
• neglect