breach of promise

Historically, 'breach of promise' referred to breaking a promise to marry, a concept now mostly obsolete in modern legal systems.

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Definition

C1Legal

(historical, formal)A violation of a promise to marry, which could historically result in legal action for damages.

Example

  • In the 19th century, a breach of promise case could lead to significant social and financial repercussions.
  • She sued him for breach of promise after he called off their engagement.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "breach of promise":

promise ringmaterial breachbreach of the peace