precommitment

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌpriːkəˈmɪt/

KK: /priˈkəmɪt/

noun

Definition

A decision made in advance to commit to a certain action or choice.

Example

The team made a precommitment to finish the project by the end of the month.

Conversation

Are you free to hang out this weekend?

I would love to, but I have a precommitment to attend a family event.

That's too bad! Maybe we can plan for next weekend instead?

Definitely! I'll check my schedule and let you know.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

pledge

promise

commitment

Antonyms

indecision

uncertainty

disengagement

Root Explanation

Precommitment → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "commitment" (from Latin "committere", meaning to entrust or to commit). The word refers to the act of committing to something before it happens or making a decision in advance.

Memory Tip

Think of making a decision 'before' ('pre-') you actually commit to it — that's what precommitment means.

Visually Confused Words

recommitment