What is assure? Pronunciation and usage in English

assure means . Learn how to pronounce and use assure through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of assure

assureverb

/əˈʃɔː//əˈʃʊə/
Definition & pronunciation of assure

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "assure" in English. It's a tricky one because of the "ss" sound! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound (the "a"):

  • Start with a short "a" sound, like in the word "cat." Think "ah."

2. The "ss" Sound:

  • This is the most challenging part. It's not like "s" as in "sun." It's a combination of sounds that creates a slightly softened “s.”
  • Imagine you’re saying “as” but very quickly and subtly merging it with an “s.” It's almost like a very light "sh" sound before the "ur."
  • You’ll hear a sound that's somewhere between “ash” and “ass.” It's a single sound, not two separate “s” sounds.

3. The "ur" Sound:

  • Say “ur” as in “burn” or “hurt.” It’s a diphthong (a blended vowel sound).

Putting it all together – the whole word:

Most people say it roughly like: "uh-shure" (with the "sh" blended in)

Here are a few ways to hear it:

  • Google it: Search for "how to pronounce assure" on Google and listen to the audio examples.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/assure/ – This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers from various regions.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce assure" – you'll find many helpful videos.

Tips for Practice:

  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.
  • Slow it down: Initially, practice the word slowly and deliberately to focus on each sound. Then gradually increase the speed.
  • Isolate the sounds: Practice saying "uh" + "sh" + "ur" separately and then blending them together.

Would you like me to:

  • Provide more example words with similar sounds?
  • Focus on a specific part of the pronunciation (like just the "ss" sound)?

Usage and examples with the word assure in English

Let's break down how to use the word "assure" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a specific nuance.

1. Core Meaning: To Tell Someone Something to Ease Their Worries

At its heart, "assure" means to tell someone that something is true or that they don’t need to worry. It’s about providing confidence and reassurance.

2. Common Ways to Use "Assure":

  • As a Verb (giving reassurance): This is the most frequent usage.

    • Example 1 (Formal): “The doctor assured me that my condition was not serious.” (He gave me the reassurance that it wasn't serious.)
    • Example 2 (Informal): “Don’t worry about the flight delay – the airline will assure you they’re doing everything they can.” (They’ll give you the confidence that they're taking care of it.)
    • Example 3: “I need to assure you that all your personal information is secure.” (This guarantees safety and security.)

  • As a Verb (to confirm or state emphatically): Sometimes, "assure" is used to strongly confirm a fact. This usage is less common than the reassurance sense.

    • Example: “The report assures us that the project is on track.” (Here, it's confirming the status of the project.)

  • As a Noun (reassurance): Less common, but it can refer to the act of giving reassurance.

    • Example: "His words assured her that she was loved." (The assurance he provided calmed her fears.)

3. Synonyms:

  • Reassure: This is the closest synonym and often interchangeable.
  • Confirm: (When used to state a fact)
  • Guarantee: (If it promises a specific result)
  • Convince: (If it changes someone's belief)
  • Tell: (Simple, but sometimes “assure” is more specific in its intent)

4. Key Differences to Note:

  • "Assure" vs. "Tell": “Tell” is simply conveying information. “Assure” goes further – it’s about reducing anxiety or providing confidence.
  • "Assure" vs. "Promise": A promise is a declaration of intent. "Assure" is a statement of fact or a guarantee of a state of affairs.

5. Example Sentences Demonstrating Different Uses:

  • Reassurance: "Please assure your parents you'll be home by 10."
  • Confirmation: "The weather forecast assures us of sunshine tomorrow.”
  • Noun: “Her smile was a comforting assurance to me.”

6. Tips for Using "Assure" Correctly:

  • Consider the context: Think about what you're trying to communicate – simply conveying information, or specifically providing comfort and confidence.
  • Use it when you genuinely want to ease someone’s worries. It’s a more deliberate and thoughtful word than simply "telling" something.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using "assure" in? (e.g., writing an email, speaking in a presentation, casual conversation)

Synonyms for the word assure

Practice with vocabulary assure

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager tried to __________ the stakeholders that all deadlines would be met.
  2. We must __________ that all safety protocols are strictly followed in the laboratory.
  3. The company offers a comprehensive package to __________ its employees against unexpected medical expenses.
  4. I can personally __________ you of her integrity and dedication to this task.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. The project manager sought to __________ the team members that their hard work would be recognized and rewarded. a) persuade b) assure c) convince d) promise

  2. Before making a final decision, the committee needed to __________ the accuracy of the financial projections. a) assure b) verify c) confirm d) stipulate

  3. Despite the market volatility, the CEO tried to __________ investors of the company's long-term stability. a) persuade b) assure c) guarantee d) comfort

  4. Please __________ that all confidential documents are shredded before leaving the office. a) assure b) confirm c) ensure d) verify

  5. During the crisis, the government worked to __________ its citizens that essential services would remain operational. a) persuade b) assure c) inform d) declare

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company management told the employees with certainty that there would be no significant changes to their benefits package. (Use "assure")
  2. We made sure all the necessary permits were obtained before construction began. (Do not use "assure", use a suitable replacement word)
  3. The customer service representative sought to calm the client's worries regarding the delayed shipment. (Use "assure" or a related word form)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. assure
  2. ensure
  3. insure
  4. assure

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) assure, c) convince, d) promise
  2. b) verify, c) confirm
  3. b) assure, c) guarantee, d) comfort
  4. c) ensure
  5. b) assure

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company management assured the employees that there would be no significant changes to their benefits package.
  2. We ensured all the necessary permits were obtained before construction began.
  3. The customer service representative sought to assure the client about the delayed shipment.

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