make sure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make sure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to emphasize the importance of doing something. For example, "Make sure you finish your homework before tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Make sure you're diversified.

The New York Times

"Make sure it's skim".

The New York Times - Arts

Make sure they are dry.

Biological Procedures Online

Make sure.

WikiHow

Make sure they stick.

WikiHow

Make sure to blend.

WikiHow

Make sure you pay.

WikiHow

Make sure you're eligible.

WikiHow

Make sure nobody's watching.

WikiHow

Make sure it's steady.

WikiHow

Make sure it's readable.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make sure" to emphasize the importance of a specific action or outcome. It's suitable for both casual and semi-formal contexts.

Common error

In formal writing, avoid relying too heavily on the phrase "make sure". Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "ensure", "verify", or "confirm" to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make sure" functions as a directive, urging the listener or reader to verify or confirm something. This is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and the examples provided, which demonstrate its use in ensuring a desired outcome or state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make sure" is a versatile directive used to emphasize the importance of verifying or ensuring something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While predominantly found in general contexts like WikiHow, it also appears in reputable news sources. For formal writing, consider synonyms like "ensure" or "verify" to maintain a sophisticated tone. Remember to use "make sure" when you need to highlight the necessity of a specific action or outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ensure

A more formal and concise synonym for "make sure".

verify

Implies a more thorough check to confirm accuracy.

confirm

Similar to verify, but often used for arrangements or appointments.

guarantee

Suggests a stronger level of certainty and assurance.

see to it that

A slightly more emphatic way of saying "make sure".

take care to

Emphasizes the act of being cautious or diligent.

be certain

Focuses on the state of being sure about something.

assure yourself

Implies taking personal steps to confirm something.

double-check

Specifically means to check again for errors or omissions.

ascertain

A formal term indicating a need to determine something with certainty.

FAQs

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

You can use "make sure" to emphasize the importance of an action. For example, "Make sure to lock the door" or "Make sure you understand the instructions".

What are some alternatives to "make sure"?

Alternatives include "ensure", "verify", "confirm", or "guarantee", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "make sure that"?

Yes, adding "that" after "make sure" is grammatically correct, but it's often omitted for brevity. Both "Make sure you call" and "Make sure that you call" are acceptable.

What's the difference between "make sure" and "be sure"?

"Make sure" emphasizes the action of verifying or ensuring something. "Be sure" emphasizes the state of being certain or confident. For example, "Make sure you have your passport" (verify you have it) vs. "Be sure of your facts" (be certain about your facts).