make sure

Definitions

1. 1

   To ensure that something specific happens, is done etc., or of something happening.

   • I'm going to make sure that I get to the interview on time.
   • I expected to be able to get to the interview on time, but I left home earlier than usual just to make sure.
   • "We want to do everything we can to make sure everyone has a hassle-free journey.
2. 2

   To make oneself certain (of something, or that something is the case)

   To make oneself certain (of something, or that something is the case); to verify, to ascertain.

   • When you leave, make sure you have locked the door behind you.
   • Make sure of your sources before you publish.
3. 3

   To feel certain of something

   To feel certain of something; to be convinced.

   • “The gun!” said he. “I have thought of that,” said I, for I made sure he was thinking of a bombardment of the fort. “They could never get the gun ashore, and if they did, they could never haul it through the woods.”
   • ‘I put my name to a bill for Fred; it was for a hundred and sixty pounds. He made sure he could meet it himself.’
   • "You—you said God would bring papa back, if I prayed to Him, and I did, Ann. I've asked God every day, and I've been expecting papa ever since, and when Jack brought the dinner to-day, I made sure he had come at last."
4. ›+ 1 more definitionshow fewer

   1. 4

      To betroth.

      • […] then his marriage shall be ſolemniz'd, / For wrote you not that I haue made him ſure / Vnto our Coſin, the Earle of Gloſters heire.
      • Women are borne, but to make fooles of men. She that's made sure to him, she loves not well, Her banes are ask'd here, but she wedds in hell; Parents that match their children gainst their will, Teach them not how to live, but how to kill.

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