promising

word · lemma: promise

/ˈpɹɑməsɪŋ/
PRAH-muh-sing
/pɹˈɒmɪsɪŋ/
PRO-mi-sing

Definition

Showing signs of future success, improvement, or good results. It can describe a person, idea, situation, or beginning that seems likely to develop well.

Usage & Nuances

Common in formal and everyday English. Often used before nouns: 'a promising student', 'a promising start', 'a promising idea'. It usually expresses potential, not certainty. Don't confuse it with 'hopeful', which is more about feeling optimistic.

Example Sentences

She is a promising young artist.

basic

The test results look promising so far.

basic

We had a promising start to the project.

basic

It's still early, but the new treatment looks really promising.

natural

He left a stable job to join a promising startup.

natural

What started as a side project is turning into something promising.

natural