Commit

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/kəˈmɪt/

Definitions

• Verb: To carry out or perpetrate (an action, often a crime or an error).
• Verb: To pledge or bind (a person or organization) to a particular course or purpose.
• Verb: To commit oneself to a decision, promise, or course of action.
• Verb: To transfer (something) to a place or purpose, often in a formal manner (e.g., committing funds to a cause).
• Verb: To entrust or confide (something) to a particular person or organization.

Usage Examples

• He committed a serious crime.
• The government committed funds to the new healthcare initiative.
• She committed herself to the project, working late into the night.
• After much deliberation, he committed to the deal.

Etymology

The word "commit" comes from the Latin verb "committere," meaning "to bring together," "to entrust," or "to combine." It is a compound of "com-" (together) and "mittere" (to send), which originally referred to sending or entrusting something to someone. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the act of carrying out actions, including both positive and negative ones such as committing a crime or committing to a cause.

Synonyms

• Perform
• Execute
• Carry out
• Engage in
• Undertake
• Devote

Antonyms

• Refrain
• Abstain
• Neglect
• Avoid
• Cancel

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In American English, the pronunciation of "commit" emphasizes the first syllable, while in British English, the pronunciation tends to be softer and more neutral, with a slight emphasis on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The verb "commit" has been used in the English language since the 14th century, deriving from Latin through Old French. Initially, it referred primarily to the act of entrusting something to another, particularly in the context of legal or religious matters. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass the idea of performing actions, both positive and negative, such as committing crimes or committing oneself to a cause.

Cultural Nuances

The word "commit" often carries a significant weight in various cultural contexts. For example, in a legal context, it may refer to the act of committing a crime, which often carries severe consequences. In a personal or social context, committing can imply devotion to a cause, indicating a deep sense of responsibility or obligation. In some cultures, the concept of commitment is seen as a virtue, especially in relationships and business dealings.

More Information

The verb "commit" is widely used in various domains, from everyday language to specialized fields such as law, medicine, and business. It can imply both positive and negative actions, depending on the context in which it is used. Legal and medical usages often emphasize the seriousness of the action (e.g., committing a crime or committing a person to psychiatric care). On the other hand, in a social or business context, committing often refers to making a serious promise or decision. Understanding the nuances of "commit" is important for using it correctly in different situations, whether in personal relationships or formal agreements.