When it comes to ensuring that you’ve got everything covered, sometimes a simple “make sure” just won’t cut it. Lucky for you, we’ve got a list of the top slang phrases for “make sure” that will not only have you sounding cool and in-the-know, but will also help you communicate your intentions with style and flair. So, before you embark on any endeavor, make sure you check out this list and level up your language game!
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1. Double-check
To verify or confirm something by checking it a second time. This slang term emphasizes the importance of thoroughness and attention to detail.
- For example, before submitting a report, a colleague might say, “Double-check your calculations to ensure accuracy.”
- In a conversation about travel plans, someone might advise, “Double-check your flight details to avoid any surprises.”
- A teacher might remind students, “Double-check your answers before handing in your test.”
2. Make certain
To ensure or make sure of something. This slang term emphasizes the importance of being certain and confident in one’s actions or decisions.
- For instance, a parent might tell their child, “Make certain to lock the door when you leave.”
- In a conversation about meeting up, someone might say, “Make certain to arrive on time so we don’t miss our reservation.”
- A supervisor might instruct an employee, “Make certain to follow the safety protocols to prevent accidents.”
3. Confirm
To verify or ensure the accuracy or truth of something. This slang term emphasizes the act of obtaining confirmation or validation.
- For example, when making plans with a friend, one might say, “Confirm the time and location before we meet.”
- In a discussion about a rumor, someone might ask, “Can you confirm if it’s true or not?”
- A customer might request, “Please confirm my reservation for tomorrow night.”
4. Verify
To confirm or establish the truth or accuracy of something. This slang term emphasizes the act of checking or validating information.
- For instance, when signing up for an online account, a user might be asked to “verify” their email address.
- In a conversation about a news article, someone might say, “I need to verify the facts before sharing it.”
- A detective might say, “We need to verify the suspect’s alibi to determine their involvement.”
5. Ensure
To make certain or guarantee that something will happen or be the case. This slang term emphasizes the act of taking necessary steps to ensure a desired outcome.
- For example, when leaving for vacation, someone might say, “Ensure all doors and windows are locked.”
- In a discussion about a project deadline, a team leader might say, “Ensure all tasks are completed on time.”
- A chef might instruct their staff, “Ensure the food is cooked to perfection before serving it.”
6. Guarantee
To make sure that something will happen or be done. “Guarantee” is often used to express confidence in the outcome or to offer reassurance.
- For example, a salesperson might say, “I guarantee you’ll be satisfied with this product.”
- A service provider might assure a customer, “We guarantee on-time delivery.”
- In a conversation about a future event, someone might say, “I can’t guarantee I’ll be there, but I’ll try my best.”
7. Assure
To give someone confidence or make them feel certain about something. “Assure” is often used to offer reassurance or to confirm the reliability of a statement.
- For instance, a parent might say, “I assure you, everything will be fine.”
- A friend might assure another, “I’ll be there for you, no matter what.”
- In a business setting, someone might say, “I can assure you that our company has a strong track record of success.”
8. Secure
To acquire or gain possession of something. “Secure” is often used to emphasize the act of ensuring or guaranteeing the availability or possession of something.
- For example, a person might say, “I need to secure a reservation for tonight.”
- A financial advisor might advise, “It’s important to secure your financial future by investing wisely.”
- In a conversation about a job opportunity, someone might say, “Once I secure the position, I can start planning for the future.”
9. Check
To confirm or make sure of something. “Check” is often used to indicate the act of examining or inspecting something to ensure its accuracy or correctness.
- For instance, a teacher might say, “Please check your answers before submitting your test.”
- A person might ask, “Can you check if I locked the door?”
- In a conversation about a document, someone might say, “I’ll double-check the numbers to make sure they’re accurate.”
10. Determine
To make a final decision or reach a conclusion after considering all the available information. “Determine” is often used to emphasize the act of settling or finding a solution.
- For example, a judge might determine the outcome of a court case.
- A person might say, “I need to determine the best course of action.”
- In a discussion about a problem, someone might suggest, “Let’s work together to determine the root cause.”
11. Divine
This slang term means to ensure or make certain of something. It is often used to emphasize the importance of ensuring that something happens or is done.
- For instance, someone might say, “Divine that you lock the door before leaving the house.”
- In a conversation about meeting up with friends, one might say, “Divine that you bring your ID to the bar.”
- A person giving instructions might say, “Divine that you follow the recipe exactly for the best results.”
12. Find out
To “find out” means to make sure or confirm something. It is commonly used when seeking information or verifying a fact.
- For example, someone might say, “I need to find out if the event is still happening.”
- In a conversation about a mysterious occurrence, one might say, “I’m determined to find out what really happened.”
- A person discussing research might mention, “I found out that the study was flawed and the results were unreliable.”
13. Eye
To “eye” something means to watch or observe it closely. It can be used to mean keeping a careful watch or ensuring that something is being closely monitored.
- For instance, a parent might say to their child, “Eye your little sister while I’m in the other room.”
- In a conversation about a suspicious neighbor, one might say, “We should eye their activities to see if anything seems off.”
- A person discussing security might advise, “Eye the security cameras to make sure they are functioning properly.”
14. Settle
To “settle” something means to ensure or make sure that it is resolved or taken care of. It is often used to emphasize the importance of finalizing or confirming something.
- For example, someone might say, “Settle that you have all the necessary documents before leaving for your trip.”
- In a discussion about a disagreement, one might say, “We need to settle this issue once and for all.”
- A person giving instructions might say, “Settle that you turn off the lights before leaving the room.”
15. Size up
To “size up” means to evaluate or assess something or someone, often to determine its suitability or worth. It can be used to mean making sure or ensuring that something or someone is properly evaluated.
- For instance, a coach might say, “Size up the competition before the game.”
- In a conversation about a job interview, one might say, “I need to size up the company before deciding if it’s a good fit.”
- A person discussing a potential purchase might mention, “I’m going to size up the options before making a decision.”
16. Dig
To fully comprehend or grasp something. “Dig” is often used to indicate a deep understanding or appreciation for a concept or idea.
- For example, “I really dig that new song by the band.”
- A person might say, “I dig the way you think about things.”
- In a conversation about a complex topic, someone might ask, “Do you dig what I’m saying?”
17. Read
To take a look at or examine something. “Read” is commonly used to suggest paying attention to or being aware of something.
- For instance, “You should read that article, it’s really interesting.”
- A person might say, “I read the room and decided to leave.”
- In a discussion about a new book, someone might ask, “Have you read it yet?”
18. Peg
To designate or identify something. “Peg” is often used to indicate keeping track of or labeling something.
- For example, “I’ll peg this box as fragile.”
- A person might say, “Let’s peg that date on the calendar.”
- In a conversation about organizing files, someone might suggest, “We should peg each document with a specific category.”
19. Learn
To acquire knowledge or skills. “Learn” is commonly used to indicate gaining new information or understanding.
- For instance, “I learned a lot from that lecture.”
- A person might say, “I’m trying to learn how to play the guitar.”
- In a discussion about a new language, someone might ask, “Are you learning any new words?”
20. Follow up
To continue or pursue something. “Follow up” is often used to suggest taking further action or staying connected with someone or something.
- For example, “I’ll follow up with an email after our meeting.”
- A person might say, “I need to follow up on that job application.”
- In a conversation about a project, someone might ask, “Did you follow up with the client?”
21. Fix
To make sure that something is correct or in proper working order. It is often used to indicate the act of double-checking or correcting something.
- For example, a teacher might say, “Please fix your spelling errors before submitting your assignment.”
- In a conversation, someone might ask, “Can you fix this document for me?”
- A person might say, “I need to fix my schedule to make sure I have enough time for everything.”
22. Identify
To recognize or determine the identity or nature of something or someone. It is often used to indicate the act of verifying or confirming something.
- For instance, a detective might say, “We need to identify the suspect before making an arrest.”
- In a discussion, someone might ask, “Can you identify the source of this information?”
- A person might say, “I need to identify the problem before I can find a solution.”
23. Eyeball
To visually inspect or examine something closely. It is often used to indicate the act of looking at something carefully to ensure its accuracy or quality.
- For example, a designer might say, “Let’s eyeball the layout to make sure everything is aligned.”
- In a conversation, someone might ask, “Can you eyeball this document for any errors?”
- A person might say, “I need to eyeball the measurements to make sure they are accurate.”
24. Tell
To inform or indicate with certainty. It is often used to indicate the act of ensuring or confirming something.
- For instance, a parent might say, “Tell me that you will be home by curfew.”
- In a discussion, someone might ask, “Can you tell me if this information is accurate?”
- A person might say, “I need to tell my boss that I will finish the project on time.”
25. Triple-check
To check something three times to ensure its accuracy or correctness. It is often used to emphasize the act of making sure something is correct.
- For example, a proofreader might say, “I always triple-check my work to catch any errors.”
- In a conversation, someone might ask, “Can you triple-check this document for any mistakes?”
- A person might say, “I need to triple-check my calculations before submitting the report.”
26. Be certain
To have complete confidence or assurance in something.
- For example, “Before submitting the report, be certain that all the information is accurate.”
- In a conversation about travel plans, someone might say, “I want to be certain that the hotel reservation is confirmed.”
- A teacher might advise a student, “Before the exam, be certain that you understand the material.”
27. Check and recheck
To carefully examine or review something multiple times to ensure accuracy or completeness.
- For instance, “Before sending the email, I always check and recheck for any spelling errors.”
- In a discussion about proofreading, someone might say, “The key to catching mistakes is to check and recheck your work.”
- A chef might emphasize the importance of attention to detail and say, “In the kitchen, we have to check and recheck our recipes to maintain consistency.”
28. Cross-check
To confirm or validate information by comparing it with multiple sources or references.
- For example, “Before publishing the article, we cross-check the facts with reliable sources.”
- In a conversation about fact-checking, someone might say, “It’s crucial to cross-check information to avoid spreading misinformation.”
- A researcher might explain their methodology and say, “To ensure accuracy, we cross-check our findings with other studies in the field.”
29. Validate
To prove or confirm that something is true, accurate, or valid.
- For instance, “The experiment’s results were validated by multiple independent studies.”
- In a discussion about data analysis, someone might say, “We need to validate our findings through rigorous statistical analysis.”
- A software developer might explain the importance of testing and say, “Before releasing a new feature, we validate its functionality through extensive testing.”
30. Affirm
To state or declare something as true or factual.
- For example, “The witness affirmed that they saw the suspect at the crime scene.”
- In a conversation about personal beliefs, someone might say, “I affirm my commitment to living a healthy lifestyle.”
- A lawyer might ask a witness to affirm their testimony by saying, “Please affirm that your statement is true to the best of your knowledge.”
31. Make sure of
This phrase means to ensure or confirm something. It is often used to express a level of certainty or to emphasize the importance of verifying information or completing a task.
- For example, “Make sure of the facts before making a decision.”
- In a conversation, someone might say, “I’ll make sure of the details and get back to you.”
- A teacher might instruct a student, “Make sure of your answer before submitting your test.”
32. Ensure that
This phrase is similar in meaning to “make sure of” and is often used to emphasize the importance of guaranteeing or verifying something.
- For instance, “Ensure that all doors are locked before leaving the house.”
- In a workplace setting, a manager might say, “Ensure that the report is completed by the end of the day.”
- A safety officer might remind employees, “Ensure that you are wearing the proper protective gear.”
33. Confirm that
This phrase means to validate or establish the accuracy or truth of something. It is often used when double-checking information or ensuring that a particular condition or requirement is met.
- For example, “Confirm that you will be attending the meeting.”
- In a customer service conversation, a representative might ask, “Can you confirm that your address is correct?”
- A doctor might say, “I need to confirm that you have taken the prescribed medication.”
34. Assure that
This phrase means to provide certainty or confidence in something. It is often used to reassure or guarantee that a particular outcome or condition will be met.
- For instance, “Assure that the project will be completed on time.”
- In a conversation, someone might say, “I can assure you that the product is of high quality.”
- A parent might reassure their child, “I assure you that everything will be okay.”
35. Guarantee that
This phrase means to provide a formal or explicit assurance that something will happen or be done. It is often used to emphasize the certainty or reliability of a particular outcome or result.
- For example, “Guarantee that the product will be delivered within two days.”
- In a sales pitch, a representative might say, “We guarantee that our product will meet your expectations.”
- A service provider might advertise, “We guarantee that you will be satisfied with our work.”
36. Check to see
This phrase is used to emphasize the need to confirm or verify something. It implies taking a moment to ensure that everything is in order or as expected.
- For example, “Before you leave, check to see if you have your keys.”
- In a conversation about a project deadline, someone might say, “Let’s check to see if we have all the necessary materials.”
- If someone is unsure about a fact, they might ask, “Can you check to see if that information is accurate?”
37. Double-check to make sure
This phrase suggests the importance of verifying something by checking it twice. It emphasizes the need for thoroughness and attention to detail.
- For instance, “Before submitting your essay, double-check to make sure there are no spelling errors.”
- In a conversation about a travel itinerary, someone might say, “Let’s double-check to make sure we have all the necessary documents.”
- If someone is uncertain about a decision, they might suggest, “Double-check to make sure it’s the right choice.”
38. Triple-check to ensure
This phrase emphasizes the need for extreme caution and thoroughness when confirming or verifying something. It suggests going beyond a simple check and taking extra measures to ensure accuracy.
- For example, “Before sending the email, triple-check to ensure that all recipients are included.”
- In a discussion about quality control, someone might say, “We need to triple-check to ensure that our products meet the highest standards.”
- If someone is hesitant about a decision, they might advise, “Triple-check to ensure you’re making the right choice.”
39. Be sure to
This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of ensuring or guaranteeing something. It suggests taking the necessary steps to make sure that a particular action or outcome is achieved.
- For instance, “Be sure to lock the door before leaving the house.”
- In a conversation about a meeting, someone might say, “Be sure to bring a copy of the agenda.”
- If someone wants to emphasize the importance of a task, they might say, “Be sure to complete this assignment on time.”
40. Make it certain
This phrase implies the need to take deliberate action to guarantee or make something certain. It emphasizes the importance of leaving no room for doubt or uncertainty.
- For example, “Before making any decisions, make it certain that you have all the necessary information.”
- In a discussion about safety procedures, someone might say, “We need to make it certain that everyone understands the evacuation plan.”
- If someone wants to emphasize the importance of a rule, they might say, “Make it certain that everyone follows this policy.”
41. Confirm and verify
This phrase is used to emphasize the importance of ensuring something is true or accurate. It indicates the need for double-checking or confirming information.
- For example, “Before submitting your application, confirm and verify all the details.”
- In a conversation about meeting up, someone might say, “Let’s confirm and verify the time and location before we go.”
- When discussing the accuracy of a news article, a person might comment, “I always double-check and verify the facts before sharing.”
42. Assure and guarantee
These words are used to provide a sense of certainty or confidence in a particular outcome. They express the idea of ensuring or guaranteeing that something will happen or be true.
- For instance, “I assure you that the package will arrive on time.”
- A salesperson might say, “I guarantee you’ll be satisfied with this product.”
- When discussing a plan, someone might say, “I can assure and guarantee that everything will go smoothly.”
43. Check and confirm
This phrase is used to emphasize the need for verifying or validating information. It indicates the importance of checking and confirming the accuracy or truthfulness of something.
- For example, “Please check and confirm your reservation before your arrival.”
- In a discussion about a meeting, someone might say, “Let’s check and confirm the attendees.”
- When discussing a document, a person might comment, “I always check and confirm the details before signing.”
44. Be sure
This phrase is a simple and direct way of expressing the need for ensuring something. It conveys the idea of being certain or confident about a particular action or decision.
- For instance, “Be sure to lock the door before you leave.”
- In a conversation about a task, someone might say, “Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.”
- When discussing a deadline, a person might comment, “I’ll be sure to submit the report on time.”
45. Lock in
This phrase is used to emphasize the need for securing or finalizing a decision or arrangement. It conveys the idea of making sure something is firmly established or confirmed.
- For example, “Let’s lock in the date for the event.”
- In a discussion about a reservation, someone might say, “I’ll lock in the hotel booking.”
- When discussing a contract, a person might comment, “We need to lock in the terms and conditions.”
46. Nail down
To nail down something means to confirm or finalize it. It often implies making sure of the details or securing a specific outcome.
- For example, “We need to nail down the date for the meeting.”
- In a negotiation, someone might say, “Let’s nail down the terms of the agreement.”
- A project manager might ask, “Can we nail down the budget for this project?”
47. Pin down
To pin down something means to determine or specify it. It involves getting a clear and definite answer or making sure of a particular aspect.
- For instance, “We need to pin down the exact time of the event.”
- In a discussion about plans, someone might say, “Let’s pin down the location for the party.”
- A journalist might want to pin down the facts before writing an article.
48. Make certain of
To make certain of something means to ensure or verify it. It emphasizes the act of taking steps to ensure that a particular outcome is achieved or that something is true.
- For example, “I will make certain of the details before making a decision.”
- In a conversation about a task, someone might say, “We need to make certain of the requirements.”
- A parent might make certain of their child’s safety before leaving them with a babysitter.
49. Check out
To check out something means to investigate or verify it. It involves looking into the details or examining something to make sure it meets certain criteria.
- For instance, “Can you check out the prices of those items?”
- When considering a new restaurant, someone might say, “I’ll check it out and see if it’s any good.”
- A detective might check out an alibi to verify its accuracy.
50. Insure
To insure something means to make sure or protect against it. While commonly used in the context of insurance, it can also be used as slang to mean taking steps to ensure a particular outcome.
- For example, “I will insure that the project is completed on time.”
- In a conversation about a trip, someone might say, “I’ll insure that we have all the necessary documents.”
- A mentor might insure the success of their mentee by providing guidance and support.
51. Back up
This phrase means to take necessary precautions or actions to ensure something is safe or protected. It can also refer to creating a copy or duplicate of something as a precautionary measure.
- For example, “Before going on vacation, make sure to back up all your important files.”
- In a conversation about safety, someone might say, “Always back up your work to avoid losing important data.”
- A person might advise, “If you’re not sure about the outcome, back up your plans with a backup option.”
52. Stand by
This term means to be prepared or ready for something. It can also indicate a state of readiness or availability to assist or support.
- For instance, “Stand by for further instructions” means to wait for additional guidance or directions.
- In a conversation about a pending decision, someone might say, “I’ll stand by until I hear back from you.”
- A person might ask, “Can you stand by to help me with this task?”
53. Watch out for
This phrase means to be cautious or vigilant about potential dangers or risks. It can also indicate the need to be aware of something or someone that may cause harm or trouble.
- For example, “Watch out for slippery surfaces when it’s raining.”
- In a conversation about personal safety, someone might say, “Always watch out for suspicious behavior.”
- A person might warn, “Watch out for that car coming from the left.”
54. Cover all bases
This expression means to take all necessary steps or actions to ensure that everything is included or considered. It can also refer to being thorough or comprehensive in one’s approach.
- For instance, “Before presenting the project, make sure to cover all bases and address potential concerns.”
- In a discussion about risk management, someone might say, “To minimize risks, it’s important to cover all bases.”
- A person might advise, “When planning an event, make sure to cover all bases to avoid any last-minute issues.”
55. Be on the safe side
This phrase means to take precautions or actions to avoid potential risks or problems. It can also indicate a desire to err on the side of caution or to choose the safer option.
- For example, “Bring an umbrella just to be on the safe side in case it rains.”
- In a conversation about health, someone might say, “I’ll get a flu shot to be on the safe side.”
- A person might suggest, “If you’re not sure about the quality of the food, it’s better to be on the safe side and avoid it.”
56. Be confident
To have a strong belief or trust in something or someone. It means to be sure about a particular situation or outcome.
- For example, “I am confident that I will pass the exam.”
- A coach might say, “Be confident in your abilities and give it your all.”
- In a job interview, a candidate might express, “I am confident that I am the right fit for this position.”
57. Be convinced
To firmly believe in something or to be fully persuaded about a particular idea or concept.
- For instance, “I am convinced that he is guilty.”
- A person might say, “I am convinced that this is the best decision.”
- In a debate, someone might argue, “I presented strong evidence to convince the audience.”
58. Be satisfied
To feel pleased or fulfilled with a particular situation or outcome. It means to have no further doubts or desires.
- For example, “I am satisfied with the results of my hard work.”
- A customer might say, “I am satisfied with the service I received.”
- After completing a project, a person might express, “I am satisfied with the final product.”
59. Be reassured
To receive assurance or comfort about a particular situation or concern. It means to feel relieved or less anxious.
- For instance, “I was reassured by the doctor’s explanation.”
- A parent might say, “I was reassured by the teacher’s feedback about my child’s progress.”
- In a difficult situation, a friend might offer, “Don’t worry, everything will be okay. Be reassured.”
60. Check up on
To confirm or ensure the accuracy or correctness of something. It means to double-check or make sure that everything is in order.
- For example, “I will check up on the details before finalizing the plan.”
- A manager might say, “Please check up on the progress of the project.”
- Before submitting a report, a person might state, “I need to check up on the data to ensure its accuracy.”
61. See to it
This phrase is used as a slang term for “make sure” or “take care of.” It implies taking responsibility for making sure something happens or is done correctly.
- For example, a manager might say to an employee, “See to it that the report is submitted by the end of the day.”
- In a conversation about party preparations, someone might say, “I’ll see to it that we have enough food and drinks for everyone.”
- A parent might tell their child, “See to it that you finish your homework before going out to play.”