Words / B1

in-SHOOR/ɪnˈʃʊə/

To insure is to buy insurance: insure a car; insure against flood. Ensure means make sure — a classic mix-up. Assure means tell someone confidently. Insurance is already in the dictionary. Ensure the door is locked; insure the house. Do not write “insure that you arrive” when you mean ensure.

Meaning

To buy insurance so that you receive money if something is lost, damaged, or stolen.

Examples

• “You must insure the car before you drive it.”
• “You must insure the van before any delivery shift.”
• “The policy does not insure against wear and tear, only sudden damage.”

Good to know

insure a car / against flood. Noun: insurance. Mix-up: ensure = make sure; assure = tell someone firmly.

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