[Image credit: Stuart Miles]
Today’s topic came up at work the other day. And when I realized here’s another instance when I have no idea which word is the right word to use in what context, I figured maybe others have the same question. So, onward with my personal goal of making grammar easy … and more palatable. The verbs assure, ensure and insure all have the general meaning “to make sure.” According to Grammar Girl, assure is something you do to a person, a group of people or an animal to remove doubt or anxiety; i.e., I assured my daughter I’d be home in time for the party. Ensure is something you do to guarantee an event or condition; for example, I ensured that the party plans were in place. Insure can be done to a person, place or thing, but it’s reserved for limiting financial liability; e.g., The catering company insures its employees when they’re on the job.
How are you at ensuring you pick the right word each time?
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