make certain that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make certain that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of ensuring something is done or confirmed. Example: "Please make certain that all the documents are submitted by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We needed to make certain that was reflected in all aspects of the narrative.

Forbes

Make certain that its size is less than 1 MB.

Columbia University

You would make certain that they are in separate photos.

The New York Times

"We want to make certain that there's transparency.

The Guardian

"I think I'm well qualified to make certain that happens".

The New York Times

Please make certain that you take any data of importance with you.

Columbia University

Make certain that its size is less than 2,000 KB (2.0 MB).

Columbia University

It is important to make certain that agriculture adapts along with the changing times.

Columbia University

Make certain that its size is less than 2000 KB (2 MB).

Columbia University

"Obviously, we must make certain that the needy have access to water.

The New Yorker

Mr. Cuomo needs to make certain that the already cash-starved transportation authority doesn't suffer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make certain that", consider the context and choose a synonym like "ensure that" for a more formal tone or "make sure that" for a more casual tone.

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of "make certain that" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "ensure that" or "verify that" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make certain that" functions as a connector, introducing a clause that expresses a requirement or condition. It emphasizes the need to "ensure that" something is done or true. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make certain that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to emphasize the importance of ensuring a specific action or condition. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and broad applicability. While versatile, it's beneficial to consider synonyms such as "ensure that" or "verify that" depending on the context and desired level of formality. Used across various domains, from news and academia to wikis, "make certain that" is a reliable phrase that effectively conveys the need for diligence and confirmation. Be mindful of overuse, and diversify your writing with alternatives to maintain a clear and engaging style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ensure that

This is a more concise and formal alternative.

make sure that

A more informal version of the original phrase.

assure that

This alternative emphasizes providing confidence or certainty.

verify that

Focuses on confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

confirm that

Similar to verify, but can also mean to strengthen or establish.

guarantee that

Suggests a stronger level of certainty and a promise.

ascertain that

Implies a careful and thorough investigation.

see to it that

An idiomatic phrase meaning to take responsibility for something.

take care that

Emphasizes being cautious and attentive.

establish that

Focuses on proving or demonstrating something to be true.

FAQs

What does "make certain that" mean?

"Make certain that" means to take steps to "ensure that" something is definitely done or is the case. It emphasizes the importance of confirming or verifying something.

How can I use "make certain that" in a sentence?

You can use "make certain that" to emphasize the importance of a specific action or outcome. For example, "Please "make certain that" all doors are locked before leaving."

Which is more formal, "make sure that" or "make certain that"?

"Make certain that" is generally considered slightly more formal than "make sure that". Both are acceptable, but the context may dictate which is more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "make certain that"?

Alternatives include "ensure that", "assure that", "verify that", and "confirm that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.