Promises vs intentions — wording risks explained
Where intention becomes a promise and how to avoid extra expectations.
An intention is a plan, a promise is an obligation. In emails, the line is easy to blur.
One strong phrase can turn a normal update into a commitment.
Below are examples and safer alternatives.
What the main problem is
Intention wording often sounds too confident.
If plans change, the reader treats it as a broken promise.
Example of risky wording
One word can change the commitment level.
Risky phrasing examples
- We will finish this by the end of the week.
- We guarantee shipment tomorrow.
- We will definitely fix all issues.
We will finish this by the end of the week and will definitely fix all issues.
Why this can cause problems
Promises are perceived as legal commitments.
If the deadline slips, trust suffers.
Why this is risky
- No room for force majeure.
- Client expectations are set too high.
- Changes become harder to negotiate.
How to phrase it more safely
Make it clear this is a plan or intention and add conditions.
If unsure, check the message before sending and remove risky wording.
We plan to complete this by the end of the week.
We expect to ship tomorrow if there are no delays.
We will do our best to resolve all issues.
What to double-check before sending
Watch for words like “definitely”, “guarantee”, “must”.
Add dependencies and conditions.
Risky phrasing examples
- Replace “will” with “plan to” or “expect to”.
- State what the timeline depends on.
- Focus on next steps instead of guarantees.
Check your message before sending
SendSafe will highlight risks and suggest safer wording.