a sure thing

USAGE SUMMARY

"a sure thing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is certain or definite. For example: "I'm sure I'll get the job - it's a sure thing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's not a sure thing.

The New York Times - Health

It's hardly a sure thing.

The New Yorker

"He's a sure thing.

The New York Times - Sports

Neither step is a sure thing.

The New York Times

Neither deal was a sure thing.

The New York Times - Sports

Because law isn't a sure thing?

The New York Times

So is loss of a sure thing.

The New York Times

It is not a sure thing, however.

The New York Times

"No career is a sure thing anymore.

The New York Times

This seemed like a sure thing.

The New York Times

Nothing is a sure thing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sure thing" to express confidence in a predictable outcome, but avoid overuse. Consider more nuanced language when the situation is only highly probable, not absolutely certain.

Common error

Avoid using "a sure thing" when there's considerable risk or unpredictability involved. Doing so can undermine your credibility if the outcome doesn't materialize as expected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sure thing" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a predicate nominative or subject complement. It describes something considered certain or guaranteed. According to Ludwig, this expression is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sure thing" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express a high degree of certainty about an outcome. According to Ludwig, its usage is correct and appropriate in various contexts, especially in news and media. However, it's important to use it judiciously, as misusing it in situations with high uncertainty can diminish credibility. For scenarios requiring alternative expressions with slightly different connotations, consider using phrases like "a certainty" or "a safe bet". Ludwig provides ample examples to guide its effective application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a certainty

Replaces "thing" with a direct synonym emphasizing the guaranteed nature of the outcome.

a guaranteed outcome

More explicit and detailed, highlighting the assurance of a particular result.

a foregone conclusion

Implies that the result is inevitable and already determined.

a done deal

Suggests that the agreement or arrangement is finalized and unchangeable.

in the bag

An informal idiom meaning success is assured or nearly so.

a safe bet

Highlights the low risk associated with a particular action or decision.

a sure bet

Highlights the low risk associated with a particular action or decision.

guaranteed success

Emphasizes the guaranteed positive result.

certain success

Highlights the guaranteed positive result.

a predictable result

Focuses on the ability to foresee the outcome with confidence.

FAQs

How can I use "a sure thing" in a sentence?

You can use "a sure thing" to describe something with a guaranteed or very likely outcome. For example, "With her experience, getting the promotion is "a sure thing"".

What can I say instead of "a sure thing"?

You can use alternatives like "a certainty", "a guaranteed outcome", or "a foregone conclusion" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a sure thing"?

While grammatically correct, "a sure thing" should be used cautiously. Ensure the context genuinely reflects high certainty to avoid misleading or overconfident assertions.

What's the difference between "a sure thing" and "a safe bet"?

"A sure thing" implies a higher degree of certainty than "a safe bet". "A safe bet" suggests low risk, while "a sure thing" indicates an almost guaranteed outcome.