Meaning:
Promises should not be trusted.
Background:
The first recorded use of this expression is by Ridens on Aug 16, 1681.
Irish writer and satirist Jonathan Swift, however, popularized the expression in
his 1738 book, Polite Conversation, and thus is often attributed with being the
author of it.
Lady Smart: Ay, thou has a head and so has a pin. But my lord, all the town
has it that Miss Caper is to be married to Sir Peter Giball; one thing is
certain that she hath promis'd to have him.
Lord Sparkish: Why, Madam, you know promises are either broken or kept.
Lady A: I beg your pardon, my Lords, promises and pie-crust are made to be
broken.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I knew "promises are made to be broken" but adding 'pie-crust' spiced up the
saying. It is also briefer than "Promises are like pie crust, they are made to
be broken." I think sometimes one can omit the 2nd half and just say "Promises
are like pie crust."
