pact

Everyday

1. A pact is a serious agreement or promise between people, groups or countries to do something or to help each other. tree →
2. A pact can be a secret promise between friends («We made a pact to never tell»). tree →

In the lessons

In history lessons, pacts between countries (such as alliances and peace pacts) explain how wars started or ended; for example, NATO countries promise to defend each other. In stories, friends make a pact, sometimes with a handshake or pinkie promise. In old tales, a «pact with the devil» is a dangerous bargain.

Examples

• We made a pact to stay friends forever. tree →
• The two countries signed a pact of peace. tree →
• The friends made a pact to keep the secret. tree →
• They broke their pact and told the teacher. tree →
• NATO countries have a pact to defend each other. tree →
• In the story, the wizard made a pact with a dragon. tree →
• Let's make a pact: no phones at dinner. tree →

Note

Countable: pacts. Phrases: «make a pact», «sign a pact», «break a pact». Similar: agreement, deal, treaty (a formal written pact between countries).