How is the word ensure distinct from other similar verbs?
Some common synonyms of ensure are assure, insure, and secure. While all these words mean "to make a thing or person sure," ensure, insure, and assure are interchangeable in many contexts where they indicate the making certain or inevitable of an outcome, but ensure may imply a virtual guarantee.
the government has ensured the safety of the refugees
Where would assure be a reasonable alternative to ensure?
The meanings of assure and ensure largely overlap; however, assure distinctively implies the removal of doubt and suspense from a person's mind.
I assure you that no harm will be done
When could insure be used to replace ensure?
Although the words insure and ensure have much in common, insure sometimes stresses the taking of necessary measures beforehand.
careful planning should insure the success of the party
When is secure a more appropriate choice than ensure?
The words secure and ensure can be used in similar contexts, but secure implies action taken to guard against attack or loss.
sent reinforcements to secure their position
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of ensureThe lawsuit further states that no one involved in any of the four companies made any effort to warn nearby residents, including the Cunninghams, or to ensure that the gas at their homes were shut off.—Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 22 Apr. 2025 Thompson also weighed in on Bernie Sanders' criticisms of the oligarchy, urging corporate leaders to step up against the president's chaotic economic policies to ensure stable growth.—Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Apr. 2025 This strategic move into media ventures underscores Ronaldo’s ambition to solidify his influence in the entertainment industry, ensuring his brand’s longevity well beyond his soccer career.—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025 Two pouch compartments are there to ensure your phone doesn’t get tossed around in a larger overnight bag during trips (ditto for sunglasses and even your go-to setting spray).—Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ensure
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