Assure vs Ensure: Let’s Clear up the Confusion!

We use “assure” and “ensure” in our daily conversations, but it’s important to understand the difference between the two. Both words have different meanings and use, so it’s essential to use the right word in the right context to avoid confusion or misunderstandings.

What is Assure?

“Assure” is a verb that means to tell someone something with confidence, to guarantee, or to give assurance to someone. Here are a few examples of how to use “assure” correctly:

Examples

• I can assure you that I will be at the meeting on time.
• The doctor assured us that the operation was a success.
• She assured me that she would take care of everything.

As you can see from the examples above, “assure” is used to give someone confidence or peace of mind about something.

What is Ensure?

On the other hand, “ensure” means to make sure or to guarantee that something will happen. Here are a few examples of how to use “ensure” correctly:

Examples

• We must ensure that the doors are locked before leaving the building.
• The company is taking steps to ensure that all employees receive the proper training.
• I will ensure that the project is completed on time.

In these examples, “ensure” is used to talk about actions that need to be taken to make sure something happens or to guarantee a specific outcome.

Key Differences between Assure and Ensure

So, what’s the difference between “assure” and “ensure”? It all comes down to the level of confidence you have in the outcome. When you “assure” someone, you’re giving them confidence that something will happen. When you “ensure”, you’re taking action to guarantee that something will happen.

Here are a few more examples to help drive the point home:

Examples

• I can assure you that the party will be a success, but I need to ensure that I have enough food and drinks for everyone.
• She assured me that she would finish the report on time, but she also needs to ensure that she has all the necessary information to do so.

See the difference? “Assure” is about confidence, while “ensure” is about taking action.

Quick Quiz

1. I want to _________ that I will arrive at the airport on time.
2. She _________ me that she would be able to finish the project by the deadline.
3. We need to _________ that the windows are closed before we leave the house.
4. Can you _________ me that everything will be okay?
5. They’re taking steps to _________ that the product meets all safety standards.
6. I _________ you that I will be at the meeting tomorrow.
7. He needs to _________ that he has enough money to pay for the trip.
8. The manager _________ us that the team will receive a bonus at the end of the year.
9. We must _________ that the lights are turned off before we leave the room.
10. Can you _________ me that you understand the instructions?

Quick Quiz Answers:

1. ensure
2. assured
3. ensure
4. assure
5. ensure
6. assure
7. ensure
8. assured
9. ensure
10. assure

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between “assure” and “ensure” is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and to ensure that you’re communicating effectively. Use “assure” to give someone confidence, and use “ensure” to talk about taking action to guarantee a specific outcome.

To help you remember the difference, why not try our quick quiz? Fill out the form below with the correct word:

Recommended Reads

1. Grammarly’s guide to using “assure” and “ensure” correctly
2. The Cambridge Dictionary definition of “assure” and “ensure”
3. The Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries definition of “assure” and “ensure”
4. Examples and explanations of “assure” and “ensure” from YourDictionary
5. A comprehensive guide to “assure” and “ensure” from English Learning Blog