What best describes an illusory promise?

• A. A binding promise with a definite commitment
• B. A promise to perform that is subject to change at the promisor's whim
• C. An unenforceable contract based on wants
• D. A promise supported by consideration

Answer: (C)

An illusory promise is one that sounds like a promise but imposes no real obligation on the promisor. Because the promisor can decide to perform or not based on their own whim, there’s no binding commitment and no consideration given in return. That lack of binding obligation makes the promise unenforceable as a contract. The option describing it as an unenforceable contract based on wants captures this idea: the promise rests on the promisor’s desires rather than a true, enforceable commitment. By contrast, a truly binding promise with a definite commitment would be enforceable, and a promise that can be withdrawn only if there’s a genuine, enforceable reason would not qualify as illusory in the same way.