make sure not

USAGE SUMMARY

"make sure not" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to suggest being careful not to do something or to not forget to do something. Example: "Make sure not to forget your homework tomorrow." Other examples: - "I always make sure not to miss my morning run." - "Make sure not to leave the door unlocked when you leave." - "Please make sure not to disturb the other guests while you are here."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'll make sure not to wear white".

The New York Times

(Make sure not to burn the butter).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Make sure not to overcook them.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Make sure not to over-mix.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Make sure not to make this mistake.

Forbes

I'll make sure not to tidy up".

Vice

Make sure not to miss it.

Huffington Post

Make sure not to spill.

WikiHow

Make sure not to stare.

WikiHow

Make sure not to spit.

WikiHow

Make sure not to staple your finger.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, use "make sure not" to clearly communicate actions to be avoided. For instance, "When cooking, "make sure not" to overcook the vegetables" to prevent a common error.

Common error

While generally acceptable, "make sure not" can sound informal. In professional or academic contexts, consider using phrases like "ensure that you do not" or "be certain not to" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make sure not" functions primarily as an instructional phrase or directive. It's used to advise someone to avoid a particular action or outcome. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is a standard expression in the English language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

52%

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make sure not" is a versatile and frequently used expression in English. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to provide a caution, guidance, or direction to avoid a certain action or outcome. Predominantly found in informal contexts such as WikiHow and news media, it serves as a direct and clear way to communicate preventative measures. While grammatically sound, more formal alternatives like "ensure that you do not" might be preferable in academic or professional settings. When writing, use "make sure not" to offer guidance, but consider the context and audience to ensure the register is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be certain not to

Emphasizes certainty and intention in avoiding an action.

be sure to not

Offers a slightly more informal version of the original phrase, implying a similar level of caution.

don't forget to avoid

Combines a reminder with the action of avoiding something.

remember to not

Directly reminds the listener to refrain from a specific action.

take care not to

Highlights the need for caution in order to prevent something.

avoid doing something

Focuses on the act of avoiding an action, rather than a direct instruction.

refrain from doing

A more formal way of suggesting the avoidance of a specific action.

ensure you don't

Shifts the emphasis to ensuring a negative outcome doesn't occur.

see to it that you don't

Adds a sense of responsibility and diligence in preventing something.

guarantee you won't

Emphasizes a firm commitment to preventing a particular outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "make sure not" to advise against doing something, such as ""Make sure not" to forget your keys" or ""Make sure not" to touch the wet paint".

What phrases are similar to "make sure not"?

Alternatives include "be certain not to", "remember not to", or "take care not to". The best option depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "make sure not" grammatically correct?

Yes, "make sure not" is grammatically correct and commonly used in spoken and written English. Ludwig AI also confirms its validity and common usage.

What is the difference between "make sure not" and "be sure not to"?

Both phrases are very similar in meaning. "Make sure not" is slightly more informal, while "be sure not to" can be used in both formal and informal contexts.