Definition

To take back or cancel a promise or oath that was previously made.

Example

After realizing the mistake, he decided to unswear his previous commitment.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was thinking about that promise I made last week.

Oh, the one to never talk about our secret?

Yeah, I might need to unswear it if it gets too hard to keep.

That's understandable — sometimes we make promises we can't stick to.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To take back or cancel a promise or oath that was previously made, often by making a new promise or oath.

Example

He decided to unswear his previous commitment after realizing it was not what he wanted.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I had to unswear my promise after realizing it was a bad idea.

Really? What happened that made you change your mind?

I just thought it was unfair to everyone involved.

Root Explanation

Unsweare → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "swear" (from Old English "sweoran", meaning to make a solemn promise or oath). The word "unswear" means to retract or take back a sworn statement or promise.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') making a 'solemn promise' ('swear') — that's why unswear means to take back a promise.

Visually Confused Words