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ensure

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪnˈʃʊr/

KK: /ɪnˈʃʊr/

transitive verb
Definition

To make certain that something will happen or be the case.


Example

We need to ensure that everyone arrives on time for the meeting.


Tense Forms

Past: ensured

Past Participle: ensured


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you remember to ensure we have enough snacks for the movie night?
Sloth B
I checked last night, and we should be good to go!
Sloth A
Great! I just want to make sure we don’t run out halfway through.
Sloth B
No worries, I've got it covered — we’ll definitely have enough!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
secure
guarantee
confirm
Antonyms
endanger
jeopardize
risk
Root Explanation

Ensure → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be) and "surer" (from Old French *surer*, meaning to make sure or secure). The word means to cause something to be certain or secure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'causing something to be' ('en-') and 'making sure' ('surer') — that's how ensure means to make certain.

Visually Confused Words
censure
enure
reinsure
censurer
unsure
tenure
insure
endure
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