How is the word insure distinct from other similar verbs?
Some common synonyms of insure are assure, ensure, and secure. While all these words mean "to make a thing or person sure," insure sometimes stresses the taking of necessary measures beforehand.
careful planning should insure the success of the party
When can assure be used instead of insure?
In some situations, the words assure and insure are roughly equivalent. However, assure distinctively implies the removal of doubt and suspense from a person's mind.
I assure you that no harm will be done
How is ensure related to other words for insure?
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
When is secure a more appropriate choice than insure?
The words secure and insure 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
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Recent Examples of insureThe cheapest to insure is the Model 3, at about $3,153 per year.—Liz Knueven, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2026 However, access may be limited to banking hours, and contents are not usually insured by the bank.—Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 22 Apr. 2026 That has some pet owners wondering if insuring their furry friend is the right move for them.—Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 21 Apr. 2026 This can cover repairs needed because of an earthquake and can also insure personal property, debris removal or living expenses while a home is repaired, according to The North Carolina Department of Insurance.—Eva Flowe
april 21, Charlotte Observer, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for insure
The task now is to ensure that the technologies that harness those resources are as resilient as the resources themselves — by diversifying supply chains, investing in domestic manufacturing, and building stronger industrial partnerships among allies.
—
Jennifer Granholm,
semafor.com,
30 Apr. 2026
Protect the Seed Stockman recommends raking the seeds into the lawn to ensure that there is ample seed-to-soil contact.