What is the difference between vow and promise?

[Christian Hoffmann]

English Grammar Error, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #15 "Sleep well (1)", question 6

The manager was very angry with her and she made an oath to herself that it wouldn't happen again.

(a) was
(b) her
(c) an oath

English Grammar Error, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #15 "Sleep well (1)", answer 6

The manager was very angry with her and she made a promise to herself that it wouldn't happen again.

Correct entry: a promise
The error was: (c) an oath

You have found the error but your entry is incorrect.
The manager was very angry with her and she made vow to herself that it wouldn't happen again.
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Why not Vow

[Alan]

Hi,

Vow would be too strong here when she is making this to herself rather than making it in public. You could use it in the verb and thus make it public: She vowed it wouldn't happen again.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
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