Confusing words explained
“ensure” vs “assure” — What’s the Difference?
Assure is to tell someone something; ensure is to make it happen
Key takeaway
Quick Difference: ensure vs assure
Assure is to tell someone something; ensure is to make it happen
ensure vs assure Side-by-Side Comparison
Meaning of ensure
To make certain that something happens or is the case; to guarantee.
Ensure means to make sure that something definitely happens or is true.
Use ensure in formal writing and professional contexts. It takes an object or that-clause: ensure something or ensure that something happens.
- We must ensure the doors are locked before leaving.
- The new policy ensures all employees receive fair treatment.
Meaning of assure
To promise confidently; to tell someone something will definitely happen.
To tell someone confidently that something will happen or is true.
Use with person object: assure someone. Often followed by 'of' or 'that' clause.
- I assure you that everything will be fine.
- The manager assured the team of their job security.
How to Remember the Difference
Ensure an Event happens; assure A person of something.
Common Mistakes with ensure and assure
Mistake with ensure
Wrong: We ensure to deliver on time.
Correct: We ensure delivery on time.
After ensure, use a noun, not to-infinitive. Use gerund or noun form instead.
Mistake with ensure
Wrong: The insurance ensured the house was protected.
Correct: The insurance insured the house against damage.
Use insure for insurance policies; ensure for making sure something happens.
Mistake with assure
Wrong: We ensure you that the work is done.
Correct: We assure you that the work is done.
Use 'assure' when promising/convincing; 'ensure' means make certain it happens.
Mistake with assure
Wrong: She assure me that it will work.
Correct: She assures me that it will work.
Third person singular requires -s: assures.
Practice Quiz: ensure or assure?
Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.
Question 1
We must _____ the doors are locked before leaving.
Question 2
To _____ quality, the team reviews every product carefully.
Question 3
I _____ you that everything will be fine.
Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.
You scored 0 out of 3
Frequently Asked Questions About ensure vs assure
What’s the difference between “ensure” and “assure”?
Assure is to tell someone something; ensure is to make it happen
When should I use “ensure”?
Use ensure in formal writing and professional contexts. It takes an object or that-clause: ensure something or ensure that something happens.
When should I use “assure”?
Use with person object: assure someone. Often followed by 'of' or 'that' clause.
How can I remember ensure vs assure?
Ensure an Event happens; assure A person of something.
Is it “ensure” or “assure” in example sentences?
Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.