Ensure Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ensure

[ÉŖnĖˆŹƒŹŠÉ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to make certain

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

Synonyms

confirm, guarantee, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ensure

Used when you want to make sure something happens or is the case. It often implies taking measures or actions to achieve a certain result.

  • Please ensure that all the doors are locked before you leave.
  • We need to ensure the safety of our guests.
guarantee

Used when promising a certain outcome or assuring that something will happen, often implying a formal promise or warranty. Commonly used in business and customer service contexts.

  • We guarantee all our products for one year.
  • I can guarantee that your order will be delivered on time.
secure

Applied when you want to achieve or obtain something with a certain level of difficulty or effort, or ensure safety from threats. Can imply physical or abstract security.

  • She managed to secure a job at the company.
  • Make sure to secure your personal information online.
confirm

Applied when you need to verify or validate something that is already believed to be true or accurate. Often used for appointments, reservations, and information accuracy.

  • Can you confirm our meeting for tomorrow?
  • The results need to be confirmed by a second test.

Examples of usage

  • He wanted to ensure that the document was signed before the end of the day.
  • She checked her bag again to ensure she had her keys.
  • We need to ensure that everyone is aware of the new policy.
Context #2 | Verb

to protect against harm

To protect or make something safe. To minimize the risk of harm or damage.

Synonyms

insure, protect, safeguard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ensure

Used to mean making sure something happens or is the case. Often used in formal or professional settings.

  • We need to ensure that all participants receive the necessary materials before the meeting
  • He takes care to ensure his work is always accurate
safeguard

Used to describe actions taken to protect against potential threats or dangers, often used in formal or legal contexts.

  • The government implemented new policies to safeguard national security
  • Passwords should be strong to safeguard against cyber attacks
protect

Used when you want to describe the action of keeping someone or something safe from harm or damage.

  • Parents always want to protect their children from danger
  • The new law aims to protect consumer rights
insure

Used primarily in the context of purchasing financial protection against loss or damage, typically through an insurance policy.

  • She decided to insure her car against theft and accidents
  • They wanted to insure the house after moving to the flood-prone area

Examples of usage

  • It is important to ensure the safety of all passengers on board.
  • She locked the door to ensure that her belongings were safe.
  • The insurance policy helps ensure financial security in case of unexpected events.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Everyday Usage

  • The word is often used in contexts like planning, where you make sure every detail is correct.
  • In contracts, people often use 'ensure' to clarify obligations and responsibilities.
  • It's common in instructions, like ensuring safety measures are followed to prevent accidents.

Psychology

  • Using 'ensure' can increase a person's commitment to an action, as they feel more responsible for making it happen.
  • In behavioral science, ensuring that goals are clear can enhance motivation and outcomes.
  • People often feel less anxious when they ensure they have prepared beforehand for tasks or challenges.

Business

  • In professional settings, ensuring compliance with regulations is crucial to maintaining trust and safety.
  • Effective leaders ensure their teams understand company visions, impacting overall productivity.
  • Quality assurance processes in businesses are designed to ensure products meet certain standards.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have various traditions to ensure the success of event outcomes, such as blessings or rituals.
  • In some cultures, ensuring the well-being of the community is prioritized over individual success.
  • The importance of ensuring education access is a global concern, highlighting different values placed on learning.

Origin of 'ensure'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ensure' comes from the Old French word 'ensurer,' which means to make safe or certain.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'securus,' meaning free from care, or safe.
  • The prefix 'en-' suggests causing something to happen, while 'sure' emphasizes certainty.

The word 'ensure' originated from the Old French word 'enseurer', which means 'to make sure'. The term has been in use since the 14th century, evolving from the Latin word 'securus', meaning 'safe'. Over time, 'ensure' has come to signify not just making sure of something, but also protecting and safeguarding against potential harm or risk.


See also: assure, insure, surely, sureness, surety, unsure.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,678, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.