assure - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
assure Word Meanings
- to make someone feel certain
- to promise or guarantee something
- to reassure someone that something is safe or right
assure Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
assure Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈʃʊə/
US
/əˈʃʊr/
assure Word Etymology
Root: 'as-' (to) + 'sure' (certain). Historical origin: Latin 'assurare' → Old French 'assurer' → English. Memory image: Imagine a person firmly placing a hand on another's shoulder, saying, 'I promise you will be safe.'
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I take a slow breath, plant my feet, and set my posture to stay steady. I move closer with a calm voice, pushing doubt aside and adjust my pace as I speak. Holding his gaze, I feel a small turn toward certainty as tension eases and trust grows. In everyday talk, I learn to use assure to help someone feel sure about a plan or choice.
Real Context
Assure is a verb meaning to make someone feel certain or confident about something, often through a promise, reassurance, or evidence. It stresses the speaker's commitment and the listener's sense of safety. In English, you assure someone of a fact, of safety, or of a plan; you can also assure a customer of quality. It is more formal than simple verbs like tell or convince, and it typically takes an object like someone or something plus of that thing or that clause. Remember the related noun reassurance and the opposite ensure, which focuses more on securing processes or outcomes.
Usage Reminders
- Use with of/about; avoid passive voice; pair with a direct object; distinguish from ensure; avoid overpromising; prefer formal contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Assure = simply tell or convince
- Assure = always about safety
- Assure = synonymous with guarantee
- Assure = passive construction only
- Assure = informal slang
Thinking Differences
English tends to favor explicit assurance combined with explicit objects (assure you of X). Think of it as delivering emotional security through promises or evidence, rather than just stating facts.
Learning Tips
- Think of assure as comforting with a promise
- Pair with of or that clause
- Differentiate from ensure by focusing on emotion
- Use formal contexts for professional writing
- Watch for collocations: assure someone of, assure you that
- Practice with a real person to build confidence
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which of the following words is the closest in meaning to 'assure'?
A.Hesitate
B.Erase
C.Destroy
D.Guarantee
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'assure' used correctly?
A.She assured the teacher that she didn't study for the test.
B.He wasn't sure if he should assure the customer of the product quality.
C.The storm's destruction didn't assure safety for the residents.
D.The student hesitated to assure her classmates about the project deadline.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is the opposite of 'assure'?
A.Confirm
B.Doubt
C.Support
D.Reveal
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life scenario would someone 'assure' another person?
A.A student guessing the answer on a test.
B.A chef burning the food.
C.A doctor assuring a patient before surgery.
D.A mechanic ignoring the car's problems.
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a sentence using the word 'assure'?
A.Sure
B.I finished the assignment
C.Maybe
D.I assure you that the project will be completed on time.
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