Definition of ensurenext
as in to assure
to make sure, certain, or safe regulations that ensure the wholesomeness of our food

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word ensure distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of ensure are assure, insure, and secure. While all these words mean "to make a thing or person sure," ensure, insure, and assure are interchangeable in many contexts where they indicate the making certain or inevitable of an outcome, but ensure may imply a virtual guarantee.

the government has ensured the safety of the refugees

Where would assure be a reasonable alternative to ensure?

The meanings of assure and ensure largely overlap; however, assure distinctively implies the removal of doubt and suspense from a person's mind.

I assure you that no harm will be done

When could insure be used to replace ensure?

Although the words insure and ensure have much in common, insure sometimes stresses the taking of necessary measures beforehand.

careful planning should insure the success of the party

When is secure a more appropriate choice than ensure?

The words secure and ensure can be used in similar contexts, but secure implies action taken to guard against attack or loss.

sent reinforcements to secure their position

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ensure Scott Feltman, Preventative Security Analyst and Executive Vice President at One Israel Fund, said no religious group should have to choose between remaining open and ensuring safety. Ariella Noveck, FOXNews.com, 2 Apr. 2026 So is formalizing what has traditionally been a fragmented informal sector, ensuring decent jobs in the process. Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 2 Apr. 2026 Proper preparation like mowing, dethatching, and soil testing ensures better seed germination and growth. David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 2 Apr. 2026 Glover, the mission’s pilot, tested the spacecraft’s ability to move up, down, left, and right and tilt in space—critical for ensuring its maneuverability on any future missions. Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ensure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ensure
Verb
  • The results would follow, coaches assured them.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Inter Miami officials have assured fans that the centerpiece of the project, Nu Stadium, will be game-ready on Saturday.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The executive order Trump signed his first day back in office challenges the longstanding interpretation of a 19th century constitutional provision guaranteeing birthright citizenship to nearly everyone.
    Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Though the Dodgers likely have the best roster in baseball, that doesn't guarantee a World Series victory.
    Shaun McAvoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Ensure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ensure. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

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