makes certain that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "makes certain that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express the idea of ensuring or guaranteeing that something happens or is true. Example: "The manager makes certain that all team members are aware of the project deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Sure, it makes certain that cops couldn't secretly rummage through a car unbeknownst to the driver.

Stanford University

Ms. Barabas makes certain that her actors always physically convey the swaying motion of the train as it rattles along.

The New York Times

It makes certain that consumers are not fleeced, and it forces companies to use their resources efficiently.

Harvard Business Review

Second, Putin's political repression makes certain that only the bravest and most self-sacrificing individuals challenge his rule.

The Washington Post

And Wiley makes certain that copies of the second version state that they are not to be taken (without permission) into the United States.

Harvard University

This practice dates back to 1927 - the bank feels that the personal touch makes certain that the calendars are really put up.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

And I want to do absolutely everything I can to make certain that happens.

The New York Times

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

Defense Minister Lin Biao made certain that the military remained Maoist.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makes certain that" when you want to emphasize the action taken to guarantee a specific outcome, especially when someone is proactively ensuring something.

Common error

Avoid using "makes certain that" repeatedly in formal documents or academic papers. Opt for synonyms like "ensures that" or "guarantees that" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes certain that" functions as a connector, linking an action with its intended and guaranteed result. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable. It is used to show a proactive effort to ensure a specific outcome.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "makes certain that" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey the idea of ensuring or guaranteeing a specific outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and appropriate for various contexts, though it appears most frequently in news and media. When aiming for precision, remember that related phrases like "ensures that" or "guarantees that" can add nuance and sophistication to your writing. While versatile, be mindful of overuse, particularly in formal writing, and consider alternatives like "ascertains that" for a more refined tone. Using "makes certain that" effectively involves understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate register to communicate assurance and reliability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ensures that

Replaces "makes certain that" with a more direct synonym, focusing on the act of guaranteeing a result.

guarantees that

Similar to "ensures that", but emphasizes a stronger level of assurance and reliability.

assures that

Implies a declaration or promise that something will happen, offering comfort or confidence.

verifies that

Focuses on confirming the truth or accuracy of something, rather than just ensuring it happens.

confirms that

Similar to "verifies that", but may also imply an official or formal acknowledgement.

takes care that

Emphasizes the effort and attention required to ensure a specific outcome is achieved.

sees to it that

An idiomatic expression that highlights personal responsibility in ensuring something occurs.

ascertains that

Implies a careful investigation or inquiry to establish something with certainty.

establishes that

Focuses on the act of setting something up to provide a basis for certainty.

determines that

Emphasizes a conclusion or decision made after considering the facts, leading to a certain outcome.

FAQs

How can I rephrase the sentence "She makes certain that all tasks are completed on time"?

You can rephrase it using alternatives like "She "ensures that" all tasks are completed on time", or "She "guarantees that" all tasks are completed on time" to add emphasis.

Is there a difference between "makes sure that" and "makes certain that"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "makes certain that" suggests a higher degree of confidence or assurance than "makes sure that". Use "makes certain that" when you want to stress the importance of the outcome being guaranteed.

When is it appropriate to use "makes certain that" in writing?

"Makes certain that" is appropriate in situations where you want to emphasize the proactive steps taken to ensure a desired outcome. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

What are some alternatives to "makes certain that" that maintain a formal tone?

For a formal tone, consider using phrases like "ascertains that", "verifies that", or "confirms that" instead of "makes certain that".