What is the act of promising to refrain from doing something called?

Forbearance refers to the act of intentionally refraining from exercising a legal right, particularly the promise not to do something that one has the legal ability to do. This concept is often important in contracts, where one party may agree to forbear from taking action in exchange for something else, such as a benefit or compensation from another party. Forbearance can create a legal obligation or agreement since it involves a lawful contract in which both parties may provide consideration—one by promising not to act, and the other by offering something of value in return.

In contrast, ratification is the act of confirming or endorsing a previously unauthorized act, while consideration is the legal term for what is exchanged in a contract, usually something of value that may include money, services, or other benefits. Assignment involves transferring rights or interests under a contract to another party. Therefore, in the context of your question, forbearance accurately describes the act of promising to refrain from doing something, distinguishing it clearly from these other legal concepts.