Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

i must be sure

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

'I must be sure' is a correct and usable sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a sense of urgency and certainty. For example, "I must be sure to set aside time each day to read the news."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

On my way home, I must be sure to look out of the train window to affirm for myself the plurality of said bridges.

News & Media

The Guardian

"I must be sure that what I say about them is absolutely God's truth, and after 40 years your memory might have adjusted situations".

News & Media

The Guardian

Dr. Frith, when we met in London, expanded on these themes, and said I must be sure to visit one of the most remarkable autistic people she knew — to see her at work and at home, to spend time with her.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Dr. Frith, when we met in London, expanded on these themes, and said I must be sure to visit one of the most remarkable autistic people she knew to see her at work and at home, to spend time with her.

News & Media

The New Yorker

By choosing generic, therefore universal, examples of memories and carefully pacing off the implications of her speculations -- If I am playing a board game with people close to me and we are happy, I must be sure we don't quarrel before the end of it" -- Davis adroitly deepens her plinking notes with the grand sonorities of philosophical inquiry.

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

In Brontë's Jane Eyre, one of Jane's classmates says "I am very happy, Jane; and when you hear that I am dead, you must be sure and not grieve; there is nothing to grieve about.

"I would be nothing if there was not a director or crew or other actors … I already knew Asghar and his films, and that the stories were told so beautifully, he must be sure I was right for the role".

But you must be sure.

News & Media

Los Angeles Times

More than a dozen years ago, when producers first approached me to adapt Philip Roth's Pulitzer Prize-winning "American Pastoral" for the screen, I was sure I must be the wrong writer.

News & Media

Los Angeles Times

(Though I am absolutely sure I must be overlooking someone else — but whom? Whom, America? WHOM?) In summation: Mark Wahlberg may well be the greatest actor of his generation.

News & Media

The New York Times

"I think they must not be sure of the offer," said Jesse Lunin-Pack, 29, an investment banker at Lehman Brothers.

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I must be sure", clearly state the action you need to confirm or verify to provide context for your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "I must be sure" when the situation involves uncertainty or speculation, as it creates a false impression of conviction.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

91%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I must be sure" functions as a declaration of intent or obligation. It indicates a personal commitment to verifying or confirming something. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it often precedes a specific action that requires confirmation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I must be sure" expresses a personal commitment to verifying or confirming something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not overly common, it appears in diverse contexts, particularly in news media and academic writing. When using this phrase, it's best to clarify the specific action that requires verification. Avoid using it when certainty is not achievable. Related phrases include "I have to ensure" and "I need to make certain".

FAQs

How can I use "I must be sure" in a sentence?

You can use "I must be sure" to express a personal commitment to confirming or verifying something. For instance, "I must be sure to double-check the figures before submitting the report."

What phrases are similar to "I must be sure"?

Alternatives include "I have to ensure", "I need to make certain", or "I should verify".

When is it appropriate to use "I must be sure"?

Use "I must be sure" when you want to convey a sense of personal responsibility and commitment to confirming something. It's most appropriate when accuracy is critical.

What's the difference between "I must be sure" and "I want to be sure"?

"I must be sure" indicates a necessity or obligation to confirm something, while "I want to be sure" expresses a desire or preference for certainty. The former carries more weight and urgency.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

91%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: