make sure

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العربية الفصحى
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/ˌmeɪk ˈʃʊr/
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To check or act so that something is certain.
Practice using make sure in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • We must make sure the food is safe to eat.
  • Did you make sure everyone had a ticket?
  • She checked twice to make sure she had the right address.
  • Make sure the door is locked.
  • I called to make sure the booking was confirmed.

Similar words

ensure
check
see to it

Meanings

Ensure or check

daily life
neutral
To take action or check a fact so that something happens or is correct.

Examples

  • Make sure the door is locked.
  • I called to make sure the booking was confirmed.
  • Did you make sure everyone had a ticket?
  • We must make sure the food is safe to eat.
  • She checked twice to make sure she had the right address.

Similar words

ensure
check
see to it

Etymology

Make expresses bringing about a result, and sure names certainty about a fact or outcome.

FAQ

What does make sure mean?

It means to check or act so that something is certain.

When is make sure used?

It is used when a fact needs checking or an important action must happen.

How is make sure different from be sure?

Make sure involves checking or ensuring something. Be sure describes being certain, though it can also introduce a reminder.

How is make sure used in a sentence?

It often takes a that-clause, as in “Make sure the door is locked”.

Is make sure formal?

It is neutral and common in instructions and everyday conversation.

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