cannot make sure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot make sure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing uncertainty or inability to guarantee something. Example: "I cannot make sure that the package will arrive on time due to potential delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

If Mr. Ginor had to pick just one restaurant in which to eat for the rest of his life, it would be the original Olives, he said, but even a supremely skilled chef cannot make sure that 7,000 bowls of tagliatelle are perfect.

The New York Times - Food

In general, an EC algorithm cannot make sure the provided solution is the global optimal solution.

Knowledge-Based Systems

Thus, at any sides, we cannot make sure whether the correction is proper or not.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Remark 1.1 Since 0 is a particular point, we cannot make sure those solutions are nontrivial without more conditions.

Boundary Value Problems

It should be pointed out that in [2], they cannot make sure the existence of a ground state solution.

Boundary Value Problems

PCR can miss existing gene copies, so that we cannot make sure whether Acanthoscelides individuals from the "core clade" carrying the apparently mobile cytb sequence do or do not carry an additional, "private" copy (especially knowing that the mobile copy is probably of Acanthoscelides origin).

Biology Direct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

If you cannot resist, make sure you thoroughly cleanse hands and face before GENTLY squeezing on the skin.

WikiHow

In that environment, you cannot afford to make sure that everything is 120 percent correct".

The New York Times

Cover your aquarium tightly so frogs cannot escape, but make sure it is well ventilated.

WikiHow

If certain complains simply cannot be addressed, make sure you explain why instead of just ignoring it.

WikiHow

Other staff will be their downfall if they cannot cope so make sure they gain positions based on their own merit and skills.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot make sure", consider whether a stronger, more direct verb like "guarantee" or "ensure" might be more appropriate depending on the context. This can improve clarity and conciseness.

Common error

In highly formal or professional writing, avoid using "cannot make sure" excessively. Opt for stronger, more decisive language to convey confidence and authority. For example, use "we guarantee" or "we ensure" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot make sure" functions as a qualifier, indicating a lack of certainty or ability to guarantee a specific outcome. As Ludwig AI points out, it's used to express that one cannot ensure something will happen. The examples show its use in various contexts, from food preparation to technical explanations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

35%

Science

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot make sure" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey uncertainty or the inability to guarantee a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It finds application across various contexts, including news, general writing and science, although it might be less appropriate in highly formal or professional settings. Alternatives such as "cannot guarantee" or "cannot ensure" may offer greater precision or formality depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cannot guarantee

Emphasizes the inability to provide a warranty or assurance.

cannot ensure

Highlights the lack of power to make certain that something will happen.

cannot assure

Indicates the inability to give confidence or certainty.

unable to guarantee

Similar to "cannot guarantee" but uses a more formal tone.

cannot confirm

Suggests an inability to validate or substantiate a fact or claim.

cannot promise

Highlights the lack of commitment or guarantee regarding a future event.

it's not guaranteed

Emphasizes that something is not assured or promised.

unable to ascertain

Focuses on the difficulty in finding something out for certain.

unable to verify

Stresses the impossibility of confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

it is not certain

Directly states the lack of certainty or sureness.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot make sure" in a sentence?

You can use "cannot make sure" to express uncertainty or the inability to guarantee an outcome. For example, "I cannot make sure that the package will arrive on time."

What are some alternatives to "cannot make sure"?

Alternatives include "cannot guarantee", "cannot ensure", or "unable to ascertain" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "cannot ensure" or "cannot make sure"?

While both are correct, "cannot ensure" is often perceived as slightly more formal and direct than "cannot make sure". The choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

What is the difference between "cannot make sure" and "cannot promise"?

"Cannot promise" implies a lack of commitment or guarantee, while "cannot make sure" focuses on the inability to control or ensure a specific outcome. For example, you might use "cannot promise" when discussing a future event, and "cannot make sure" when discussing a present or past situation.