verb · neutral

ensure

UK/ɪnˈʃʊə(r)/US/ɪnˈʃʊr/en·SURE

Band 6-7speakingtask2task1

to make certain that something will happen or be the case

Examples

You should ensure you understand the question before you start writing your essay.

Policies were changed to ensure equal access to services.

In Task 1 check the labels and units to ensure your numbers match the graph.

Band 8 sentence

To achieve reliable results, researchers must ensure that their methodology is transparent and replicable.

Collocations

  • ensure + that + clause
  • ensure compliance/ensure safety

Word family

ensures verbensured verbensuring verb

Common mistakes

make sure thatensure that

to ensure forto ensure

Say it for a higher band

5make sure6ensure7+ensure

Synonyms

guarantee

make sure

Easily confused

ensure vs insure

The company insured the shipment against damage.

Related words

Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.

In Sublist 8

Learn it with its set