make sure

Word Origin & History

c.1300, "safe, secure," later "mentally certain" (mid-15c.), from Old French sur, seur "safe, secure," from Latin securus "free from care, untroubled, heedless, safe" (see secure (adj.)). Pronunciation development followed that of sugar. As an affirmative meaning "yes, certainly" it dates from 1803, from Middle English meanings "firmly established; having no doubt," and phrases like to be sure (1650s), sure enough (1540s), and for sure (1580s). The use as a qualifier meaning "assuredly" goes back to early 15c. Sure-footed is from 1630s; sure thing dates from 1836. In 16c.-17c., Suresby was an appellation for a person to be depended upon.

Example Sentences formake sure

It was a little thing, of course, but Andrew closed his eyes to make sure.

To make sure of success and the size of his stakes he was willing to invest heavily.

I got up first on the wall to make sure the coast was clear.

To make sure there was no mistake, the series of questions was repeated.

I saw that he feared me and wished to make sure that I had it not in my power to do him some injury.

He looked at me out of the angle of his eye to make sure that I was in earnest.

Here they paused to make sure that the Hurons had not quitted the water.

He must use his wits; but first he must make sure that the two girls were safe.

This was to make sure that none of our friends should find time to see me off at the train.

It mistook me for a honeysuckle, and gave me a peck to make sure.

make sure

checking

confirm

confirming

confirms

ensure

ensured

ensures

ensuring

make sure

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