An oath is a solemn and formal declaration or promise made by an individual, often accompanied by a sacred or binding religious or moral obligation, to affirm the truthfulness of their statements or the sincerity of their intentions. In legal contexts, oaths are commonly administered to witnesses, jurors, public officials, and individuals taking certain legal or administrative actions, such as testifying in court, providing sworn statements, or assuming public office.
The purpose of administering oaths is to ensure the truthfulness, integrity, and accountability of individuals involved in legal proceedings or public service. By invoking a sense of duty, honour, and conscience, oaths compel individuals to speak truthfully, fulfil their obligations, and uphold the law.
Depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the proceedings, oaths may be administered in various forms, including religious oaths invoking a deity or secular oaths affirming one’s commitment to honesty and fidelity. Failure to uphold an oath may result in legal consequences, such as charges of perjury or contempt of court, and may undermine the credibility and reliability of the individual making the oath.
- a swearing to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, which would subject the oath-taker to a prosecution for the crime of perjury if he/she knowingly lies in a statement either orally in a trial or deposition or in writing. Traditionally, the oath concludes "so help me God," but the approval of a supreme being is often omitted. Criminal perjury charges are rare, however, since the person stating the untruth will almost always claim error, mistake, loss of memory or opinion. At the beginning of any testimony by a witness, the clerk or court reporter administers an oath to the witness.
- The "swearing-in" of a person assuming a public office, sometimes called the "oath of office."
- sworn commitment of allegiance, as to one's country.
- A solemn pledge or promise to a god, king, or another person, to attest to the truth of a statement or contract
- The affirmed statement or promise accepted as equivalent to an oath.
- A light or insulting use of a solemn pledge or promise to a god, king or another person, to attest to the truth of a statement or contract the name of a deity in a profanity, as in swearing oaths.
An attestation that one will tell the truth, or a promise to fulfil a pledge, often calling upon God as a witness. The best-known oath is probably the witness pledge to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth during a legal proceeding. In another context, a public official usually takes an “oath of office” before assuming her position, in which she declares that she will faithfully perform her duties.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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