Definitions

sure-fire

ADJECTIVE

dependable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

foolproof

WEAK

certain excellent fail-safe good infallible reliable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A celebrity’s ties to a property would create instant buzz—and served as a sure-fire tactic for luring in a line of prospective buyers.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

A supposed sure-fire gold medal disappeared in stunning fashion with Ilia Malinin’s eighth-place collapse.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

The problem, of course, is that this isn't a sure-fire solution and, if it was going to happen, it needed to happen fast.

From Salon • Jul. 17, 2024

People do not like jury duty, he said, "and when they see that a party in the case does not care and does not respect their time, that is a sure-fire way to get convicted".

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2024

Then, as happens so often, the preacher turned over his hole-card, the sure-fire card.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck