How to say “make sure” like a native speaker
Check or take action so that something is true or happens. It often introduces an instruction, such as checking a detail before leaving.
All phrases · Workplace
Hear “make sure” in real speech
Clip 1 · Josh Kaufman
The first 20 hours -- how to learn anything | Josh Kaufman | TEDxCSU · 13:48
About this video
Josh Kaufman discusses learning a new skill with limited time, starting with how becoming a parent changed his priorities. He explains his approach to making the first twenty hours of practice more focused and efficient.
In context
You have to get the tools that you are using to practice.You have to make sure they're available.
My ukulele didn't come with strings attached.
Clip 2 · Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey Harvard Commencement speech | Harvard Commencement 2013 · 26:54
About this video
Oprah Winfrey speaks to Harvard's graduating class of 2013. In the address, she discusses an interview with parents who lost their son in the Sandy Hook shooting and reflects on responding to difficult experiences.
In context
you will be OK.And you will make sure our country is OK.
I have faith because of that nine-year-old girl who went out and collected the change.
Clip 3 · BBC Learning English
Do you like cleaning? 🚽🧹🧽 | Improve your listening skills with Real Easy English · 0:59
About this video
Phil and another BBC Learning English presenter discuss housework and cleaning. Phil describes getting his home ready for visitors, and the conversation turns to cleaning jobs they dislike.
In context
Well, I mean we share out the housework, but I was...I had to make sure I was cleaning the kitchen.
I also did...
When to use “make sure”
- Checking before leaving: “Make sure the door is locked.”
- Preparing a document: “I'll make sure your name is spelled correctly.”
Common learner mistake
Before a full clause, say “make sure the file opens” or “make sure that the file opens”, not “make sure of the file opens”.
Possible connected-speech patterns in “make sure”
The K meets the SH at the start of “sure”. The vowel in “sure” varies across accents; copy one speaker at a time.
Related phrases
Practise again tomorrow? Get one short sentence a day, ready to record in one tap.
You don't need to speak fast.
A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
Free · One email a day · Unsubscribe anytime. Confirm your email to start. We keep only your email, language, time zone and where you signed up.