Someone who doesn’t keep their word is commonly referred to as untrustworthy, dishonest, or a promise-breaker. These terms describe individuals who fail to follow through on their commitments or consistently go back on what they say they will do.
Common Terms for People Who Don’t Keep Their Word
- Untrustworthy: Someone who cannot be relied on to act as expected or promised.
- Dishonest: A person who lies, cheats, or deceives others.
- Promise-breaker: Specifically refers to someone who makes promises and fails to keep them.
- Inconsistent: A person whose actions and words don’t align over time.
- Two-faced: Someone who says one thing but does another, often betraying trust.
Psychological and Social Implications
Not keeping one’s word can damage personal and professional relationships. Trust is a foundational element in communication and collaboration, and once broken, it’s hard to restore. People who frequently break their word may be perceived as lacking integrity, making it difficult for others to believe or depend on them in the future.
Why People Don’t Keep Their Word
- Lack of accountability: They may not feel responsible for their commitments.
- Overpromising: Some people agree to things without thinking through whether they can deliver.
- Fear of confrontation: Avoiding difficult conversations leads them to break promises silently.
- Self-interest: They prioritize personal gain over honoring commitments.
How to Deal with Someone Who Doesn’t Keep Their Word
If you’re dealing with someone who repeatedly breaks promises, consider the following approaches:
- Communicate clearly: Express how their behavior affects you or your team.
- Set boundaries: Limit how much you rely on them moving forward.
- Document agreements: In professional settings, having written agreements can help enforce accountability.
- Evaluate the relationship: Consider whether the relationship is worth maintaining if trust continues to erode.
Conclusion
People who don’t keep their word are often labeled as untrustworthy, dishonest, or unreliable. These behaviors can have significant consequences on relationships, reputations, and overall trust. Recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps can help protect your time, energy, and emotional wellbeing.
FAQ
Is it okay to call someone a liar if they break their word?
If the person intentionally deceives you or makes false promises, then yes, calling them a liar may be accurate. However, it’s important to consider context before labeling someone.
What’s the difference between forgetfulness and dishonesty?
Forgetfulness is unintentional and can be resolved with reminders or planning tools. Dishonesty involves a deliberate decision to break one’s word or deceive others.
Can trust be rebuilt after someone breaks their word?
Yes, but it requires consistent effort, transparency, and time. Rebuilding trust depends on the severity of the broken promise and the willingness of both parties to move forward.
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