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 Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 5 Mar. 2026 When curating her fashion month packing list, Vergara ensured an elegant slip dress made the cut. Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 5 Mar. 2026 Thise helps seal the outer cuticles and ensure your curls don’t become frizzy, plus tomato, which is supposed to support moisture retention. Eden Stuart, Glamour, 5 Mar. 2026 It’s built for extremes with IP68 waterproofing and 5x saltwater resistance, ensuring sea splashes or sweat won't stop its 50W of powerful audio. Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ensure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ensure
Verb
  • The winner of the primary contest is all but assured to win the general election.
    Rachel Schilke, The Washington Examiner, 2 Mar. 2026
  • With a newly safe Republican seat, whoever emerges from the GOP primary is all but assured to win in November.
    Steven Rosenbaum, CBS News, 1 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The winners will not face an opponent in the general election and are guaranteed seats on the board.
    Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 4 Mar. 2026
  • By guaranteeing loans issued by private lenders, the SBA enables lower interest rates, longer repayment terms and financing for businesses that might otherwise struggle to secure credit.
    Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, Baltimore Sun, 3 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Ensure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ensure. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

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