make certain to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make certain to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of ensuring that something is done or achieved. Example: "Please make certain to submit your application before the deadline to be considered for the scholarship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Eat the mangoes, the guru advised, but make certain to take deep breaths, eat "cooling" foods and drink plenty of water.

The New York Times

But poll workers will have to explain the system to new voters and make certain to print and distribute enough paper ballots for each polling place.

The New York Times

The title comes from an "old Indian saying": "In case you wish to befriend an elephant keeper, make certain to have room for the elephant".

The Guardian - Books

Make certain to use a computer or mobile device that you own, rather than your work computer or network.

BBC

And do make certain to depress the button for the second time with your foot off the brake – that is, unless you want the engine to restart.

BBC

Watch very carefully that you don't use such a tight range that you undervalue or overvalue yourself, and make certain to adjust those ranges based upon the location and cost of living.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

If he discharged him, he made certain to do so before dinner.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When he was a boy, they made certain to keep an eye on him, so adventurous was his spirit.

The New York Times - Sports

Before Anthony left the locker room, he made certain to see when the Knicks next meet the Bulls.

The New York Times - Sports

Melt the butter in a small pan, then pour it over the crumbs, making certain to soak them all.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Instead, victory will require attracting votes from both sides, and the hopefuls are making certain to avoid any partisan warfare.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make certain to", follow it with a clear and specific action. This ensures the reader understands exactly what needs to be done.

Common error

While useful, overusing "make certain to" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "ensure you" or "be sure to" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make certain to" primarily functions as an imperative, used to strongly advise or instruct someone to perform a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that something is done.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

37%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make certain to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as an imperative, providing strong advice or instruction. As Ludwig AI points out, its purpose is to offer clear guidance and ensure compliance across various contexts, including news media, how-to guides, and business communications. While versatile, overuse can lead to redundancy; therefore, consider alternatives like "ensure that you" or "be sure to" to maintain writing engagement. This phrase carries a generally neutral register, making it appropriate for diverse communication needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ensure that you

Focuses on guaranteeing a specific outcome or action.

be sure to

Emphasizes the need for confidence in carrying out an action.

see to it that you

Adds a sense of responsibility and oversight to the action.

guarantee that you

Highlights the assurance of a particular outcome.

take care to

Emphasizes caution and attention to detail in performing the action.

don't forget to

Serves as a reminder to perform a necessary action.

remember to

Similar to "don't forget to", but with a slightly softer tone.

assure yourself to

Highlights the act of confirming or verifying for oneself.

verify that you

Stresses the importance of checking the accuracy or truth of something.

mind that you

Implies a need for vigilance and awareness.

FAQs

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

You can use "make certain to" to emphasize the importance of a specific action. For example, "Make certain to submit your application before the deadline."

What can I say instead of "make certain to"?

You can use alternatives like "ensure that you", "be sure to", or "see to it that you depending on the context.

Is it more formal to use "make certain to" or "be sure to"?

"Make certain to" tends to be slightly more formal than "be sure to", but both are generally acceptable in most writing contexts.

What's the difference between "make certain to" and "make sure to"?

While very similar, "make certain to" emphasizes a higher degree of assurance and thoroughness compared to "make sure to".