Translation guide
In Japanese, a 'verbal promise' is commonly expressed with words meaning 'oral promise' or 'verbal agreement.' The most natural term is 口約束 (kuchiyakusoku), but other options exist depending on formality and context.
A promise made by speaking, not written down.
A slightly more formal phrase meaning 'oral promise.' 口頭 (kōtō) means 'oral' or 'verbal' in formal contexts.
口頭での約束も法的に有効です。
An oral promise is also legally valid.
A more literary or formal term for 'verbal promise.' Rarely used in daily speech.
口約を交わす。
To exchange verbal promises.
An agreement made through spoken words, often in business or legal contexts.
Used in formal or business settings to mean 'oral agreement.' It emphasizes the agreement aspect.
口頭合意に基づいて契約を進めます。
We will proceed with the contract based on the oral agreement.
口約束 (kuchiyakusoku) is the everyday term for a casual verbal promise. 口頭での約束 (kōtō de no yakusoku) is more formal and often used in legal or business contexts. For most situations, 口約束 is sufficient.
友達との口約束を忘れていた。
I forgot the verbal promise I made with my friend.
口頭での約束は証拠が残らない。
An oral promise leaves no evidence.
Do not translate 'verbal promise' as 言葉の約束 (kotoba no yakusoku) or 言語約束 (gengo yakusoku). These are unnatural and not used in Japanese.
The most direct and common translation for 'verbal promise.' It literally means 'mouth promise' and is used in everyday conversation.
口約束だけでは不安です。
I'm uneasy with just a verbal promise.
彼は口約束を守らなかった。
He didn't keep his verbal promise.
A slightly longer but equally formal way to say 'oral agreement.'
口頭での合意は書面に残すべきだ。
An oral agreement should be put in writing.