How is the word ensure distinct from other similar verbs?
Some common synonyms of ensure are assure, insure, and secure. While all these words mean "to make a thing or person sure," ensure, insure, and assure are interchangeable in many contexts where they indicate the making certain or inevitable of an outcome, but ensure may imply a virtual guarantee.
the government has ensured the safety of the refugees
Where would assure be a reasonable alternative to ensure?
The meanings of assure and ensure largely overlap; however, assure distinctively implies the removal of doubt and suspense from a person's mind.
I assure you that no harm will be done
When could insure be used to replace ensure?
Although the words insure and ensure have much in common, insure sometimes stresses the taking of necessary measures beforehand.
careful planning should insure the success of the party
When is secure a more appropriate choice than ensure?
The words secure and ensure can be used in similar contexts, but secure implies action taken to guard against attack or loss.
sent reinforcements to secure their position
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of ensureBy identifying lower-quality blood samples, hospitals can prioritize using them sooner, ensuring better treatment for patients.—Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 29 Jan. 2026 The interior slip and zippered pockets add extra storage space, while the magnetic snap closure ensures that everything is secure.—Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 29 Jan. 2026 As such, making the rules and game type for your mahjong party clear in advance is essential to ensuring a smooth, enjoyable event.—Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2026 The state has its own Domestic Workers' Bill of Rights ensuring overtime pay and minimum wage for workers even if they are no longer covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act.—Andrea Hsu, NPR, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ensure
Newcastle face the toughest task, playing defending European champions PSG in Paris knowing even a win won’t guarantee them a top-eight spot because of goal difference potentially coming into play.
—
Eduardo Tansley,
New York Times,
28 Jan. 2026
Its dual mission is to bridge the early-stage funding gap and guarantee global access, ensuring products aren’t confined to wealthy markets for decades but are introduced in low- and middle-income countries in parallel.