Definition

Verb phrase: - To take action to ensure that something happens, is done, or is true; to verify or confirm something. - To act with the specific purpose and intention of achieving a particular outcome.

Usage

This phrase is used to express the act of taking deliberate steps to guarantee a result or to check that a condition is met. It often precedes a clause introduced by "that" or is followed by an infinitive ("to" + verb).

Examples

• make sure (that)...:
  • Please make sure that the door is locked before you leave.
  • I will make sure she receives your message.
• make sure to...:
  • Make sure to turn off the lights.
  • He made sure to arrive early for the meeting.

Advanced Usage

• "make doubly sure": To check or ensure something with extra care and caution.
  • I made doubly sure the report was accurate before submitting it.
• "make perfectly sure": To be completely certain.
  • Let's make perfectly sure we have all the necessary documents.

Variants and Related Words

• Ensure (verb): To make certain that something will occur or be the case. (More formal synonym)
  • The contract ensures payment within 30 days.
• Confirm (verb): To establish the truth or correctness of something.
  • Please confirm your attendance by Friday.
• Verify (verb): To make sure or demonstrate that something is true, accurate, or justified.
  • We need to verify your identity.

Synonyms

• Ensure
• Check
• Confirm
• See to it

Related Phrases

• Make certain: A near-identical phrase in meaning and usage.
  • Make certain you have your passport.
• See to it that...: To take responsibility for ensuring something happens.
  • I will see to it that the job is done properly.

Verb

1. make a point of doing something; act purposefully and intentionally