be sure to make

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be sure to make" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when giving advice or instructions to ensure that someone completes a specific action or task. Example: "When preparing for the meeting, be sure to make a list of all the topics you want to discuss."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Be sure to make a reservation.

The New York Times - Travel

Be sure to make above-ground labels.

The New York Times

Be sure to make this very clear when you arrive.

The New York Times

Be sure to make any charitable donations in person.

BBC

They'll have to be sure to make money".

TechCrunch

Happy uploading and be sure to make those images public!

TechCrunch

Be sure to make mine a grande.

Vice

Also, be sure to make the location convenient for them.

Huffington Post

That will be SURE to make it go away!

Huffington Post

Also, be sure to make a note of the IP address before closing the dialog box.

CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology

Be sure to make friends.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, consider stronger alternatives like "ensure that" or "guarantee" for added emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "be sure to make" excessively in formal documents. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "ensure you" or "guarantee" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be sure to make" functions as an imperative, used to give a recommendation or instruction. This is supported by Ludwig which says that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples show its use in providing advice across diverse scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

45%

News & Media

32%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be sure to make" is a versatile phrase used to provide guidance or instructions. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various writing contexts, although mostly used in neutral or informal settings. While it's prevalent in wikis and news media, remember that more formal options like "ensure that" might be better in academic or business contexts. When using "be sure to make", ensure clarity and specificity in your advice, and avoid overusing it in formal writing to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you must develop

This alternative communicates a strong sense of obligation or requirement.

make certain to prepare

This alternative stresses thoroughness and careful planning.

it's important that you develop

This version highlights the significance or value of the action.

ensure you create

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the necessity of the action.

remember to complete

This option is a straightforward reminder, suitable for both formal and informal settings.

don't forget to do

This alternative serves as a reminder, often used in informal contexts.

take care to develop

This alternative emphasizes carefulness and attention to detail during the process.

see that you build

This alternative implies oversight and responsibility for ensuring the action is carried out.

guarantee you assemble

This alternative suggests a strong assurance that the action will be performed.

make it a point to construct

This option emphasizes the importance of deliberately undertaking the action.

FAQs

How can I use "be sure to make" in a sentence?

You can use "be sure to make" to give a friendly instruction or reminder. For example, "When applying for the job, "be sure to make" your cover letter specific to the position".

What are some alternatives to "be sure to make"?

Alternatives to "be sure to make" include "ensure you create", "make certain to prepare", or "remember to complete", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "be sure and make" instead of "be sure to make"?

While "be sure and make" might be heard in some informal contexts, ""be sure to make"" is the grammatically correct and more widely accepted form.

How does the formality of "be sure to make" compare to "ensure that"?

"Be sure to make" is generally more informal. For a more formal tone, "ensure that" is a better choice. For example: "Ensure that all documents are submitted on time" sounds more formal than ""be sure to make" all documents are submitted on time".