Make certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Make certain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of ensuring that something is done or confirmed. Example: "Before submitting the report, please make certain that all data is accurate and up to date."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Make certain she understands why your gifting patterns differ.

The New York Times

Make certain your site is user-friendly.

Huffington Post

Make certain they are producing.

WikiHow

Make certain it is truly free.

WikiHow

Make certain the attic has two exits.

WikiHow

Make certain you cook the sausages thoroughly.

WikiHow

Make certain to always look your best.

WikiHow

Make certain that the fish is dead.

WikiHow

Make certain geocaches are allowed there.

WikiHow

Make certain you are exercising regularly.

WikiHow

Make certain you have full coverage insurance.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Make certain" in your writing, follow it with a clear statement of what needs to be assured. For example, "Make certain the doors are locked" is more effective than simply saying "Make certain."

Common error

While "Make certain" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversation. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "be sure" or "double-check" to maintain a natural tone with your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Make certain" primarily functions as an imperative, urging the listener or reader to take specific action to ensure a particular outcome. It acts as a directive, emphasizing the importance of verification or assurance. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

46%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Make certain" is a grammatically correct and commonly used imperative phrase that urges verification or assurance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It is most frequently found in Wiki and News & Media contexts and carries a neutral to formal tone. While it's a useful phrase, be mindful of its formality and consider more casual alternatives like "be sure" in informal settings. Remember to clearly state what needs to be assured when using "Make certain" for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ensure

Focuses on guaranteeing a specific outcome or condition, slightly more concise.

Assure

Emphasizes removing doubt and providing confidence, highlighting a sense of security.

Verify

Stresses the act of confirming the truth or accuracy of something, implying a check.

Confirm

Highlights establishing something as true or valid, often involving a formal declaration.

Guarantee

Implies a formal promise or assurance, often carrying a legal or contractual weight.

Ascertain

Indicates discovering something definitively through investigation, suggesting thoroughness.

Double-check

Emphasizes the act of reviewing again to avoid errors, adding an element of caution.

Take care to

Highlights the importance of being mindful and attentive, adding a sense of responsibility.

Be sure to

Offers a friendly reminder to do something without fail, implying straightforwardness.

See to it that

Emphasizes personal responsibility in ensuring something is done.

FAQs

How can I use "Make certain" in a sentence?

"Make certain" is typically used to introduce an imperative, emphasizing the importance of ensuring something is done correctly or completely. For example, "Make certain all lights are turned off before you leave".

What can I say instead of "Make certain"?

You can use alternatives like "ensure", "verify", or "confirm" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "Make certain" or "Be sure"?

"Make certain" is generally considered more formal than "be sure". "Be sure" is acceptable in most everyday situations, while "Make certain" carries a slightly more serious tone.

What's the difference between "Make certain" and "Ensure"?

While both "Make certain" and "ensure" express the idea of guaranteeing a specific outcome, "ensure" is more concise and commonly used. "Make certain" might be chosen to add emphasis.