Dave Armstrong's glossary

Sample dialogue between Dave Armstrong and his son (Paul):

Paul: Dad, where were you?
Dave: What do you mean?
Paul: You promised to pick me up after baseball practice!
Dave: No, that wasn’t a “promise.” That was an “agreement.”
Paul: What’s the difference?
Dave: An “agreement” is stronger than a “resolution,” but weaker than a “pledge.”
Paul: But you gave your word of honor!
Dave: See “resolution.”
Paul: But you make a commitment to me!
Dave: No, a “commitment” is different than an “agreement.” I only “agreed” to pick you up.
Paul: What’s the difference?
Dave: A “commitment” is stronger than an “agreement,” but weaker than an “oath.”
Paul: Well, I don’t care what you call it as long as you guarantee that you’ll pick me up next time.
Dave: see “promissory note.”

Dave Armstrong's glossary

Agreement: something to keep 5% of the time
Commitment: something to keep 6% of the time
Contract: something to keep 7% of the time
Covenant: something to keep 12% of the time
Guarantee: something to keep 13% of the time
Oath: something to keep 17% of the time
Pledge: something to keep 14% of the time
Promise: something to keep 9% of the time
Promissory note: see “guarantee”
Resolution: something to keep 2% of the time
Sacred word: see “resolution”
Vow: see “covenant.”
Word of honor: see “resolution”