When to Use Assure vs Ensure vs Insure

Some writers use the verbs assure, ensure, and insure interchangeably. Although these verbs are similar (they all relate to “making sure” of something), they have distinct meanings.

Assure means to say with certainty or confidence.

Ensure means to make something secure or certain to happen.

Insure means to guarantee persons or property against risk.

Examples - Assure

I assure you that she is a renowned researcher.

We assure that we followed the protocol.

Examples – Ensure

The tissue-culture hood helped to ensure the environment remained sterile.

The professor sent a reminder to ensure that students remembered the upcoming test.

Example — Insure

He insured the equipment for $500.

The insurance company will insure for pre-existing conditions.