Words / B2

in-SHOOR/ɪnˈʃʊə/

To ensure is to make certain that something happens: ensure that you save your work. Make sure is the everyday phrasal equivalent. Insure is about insurance policies; assure is what you say to a person (I assure you). British writers still keep these three apart. Ensure + that-clause is the standard pattern in instructions and reports.

Meaning

To make certain that something happens.

Examples

• “Ensure that you save your work.”
• “Please ensure that the door is locked.”
• “Double-checking ensures fewer silly mistakes.”

Good to know

ensure that + clause. Everyday: make sure. Not insure (insurance) or assure (reassure someone).

Near in meaning

make sure

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