Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Certainly, without doubt: Used to emphasize that something is true or to concede a point while introducing a contrasting statement.
   • Admittedly, it must be acknowledged: Used to introduce a statement that qualifies or slightly contradicts a previous statement.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • To be sure, this is the best cake I've ever tasted. (This emphasizes the speaker's certainty about the cake's quality.)
  • He is a talented musician, to be sure, but he lacks stage presence. (This concedes a point before introducing a contrasting weakness.)
  • To be sure, the plan has risks, but we must proceed. (This acknowledges a fact before arguing against it.)

Advanced Usage

• "To be sure, ... but ...": A common rhetorical structure used to acknowledge a valid point before presenting a stronger or contrasting argument.
  • To be sure, the initial cost is high, but the long-term savings are significant.
• Used in formal or academic writing to demonstrate a balanced consideration of facts.

Variants and Related Words

• Surely (adv): Used to express strong belief or certainty. (e.g., )
• Certainly (adv): Used to emphasize that something is true or will happen. (e.g., )
• Admittedly (adv): Used to introduce a statement that weakens or concedes a point. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Certainly
• Undoubtedly
• Admittedly
• Granted
• Indeed

Related Phrases

• Make sure: To take action to ensure something happens.
  • Please make sure the door is locked.
• For sure: Informal way of saying "certainly" or "without doubt."
  • I'll be there for sure.

Related Idioms

• Sure thing: An informal expression meaning "certainly" or "definitely."
  • "Can you help me?" "Sure thing!"
• To be sure of oneself: To be confident, sometimes overly so.
  • He's very sure of himself during presentations.

Adverb

1. admittedly
   • to be sure, he is no Einstein