assure

Synonym Chooser

How is the word assure distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of assure are ensure, insure, and secure. While all these words mean "to make a thing or person sure," assure distinctively implies the removal of doubt and suspense from a person's mind.

I assure you that no harm will be done

How does the word ensure relate to other synonyms for assure?

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 insure be a reasonable alternative to assure?

The synonyms insure and assure are sometimes interchangeable, but insure sometimes stresses the taking of necessary measures beforehand.

careful planning should insure the success of the party

In what contexts can secure take the place of assure?

In some situations, the words secure and assure are roughly equivalent. However, secure implies action taken to guard against attack or loss.

sent reinforcements to secure their position

Thesaurus Entries Near assure

Cite this Entry

“Assure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assure. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on assure

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!