What is sure? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of sure

sureadjective

/ʃʊə//ʃɔː/
Definition & pronunciation of sure

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "sure" in English. There are a couple of common pronunciations, and both are generally accepted!

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • Sounds like: "shure" (like "sure" as in "surely")
  • Breakdown:
    • sh: Like the "sh" in "ship"
    • ure: Sounds like "yur" - rhyming with "cur" or "pur"

2. The British English Pronunciation:

  • Sounds like: "soor" (like "soar")
  • Breakdown:
    • so: Like the "so" in "soap"
    • r: A very quick, almost silent "r" (often almost swallowed)

Here's a quick summary table:

Pronunciation Sound Example
American "shure" "I'm sure I'll be there."
British "soor" "Are you sure about that?"

Resources to help you hear the pronunciation:

  • Google Translate: Type "sure" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. (It will usually give you the American pronunciation.)
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/sure/ - This website has native speakers pronounce the word in different accents.
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce sure" on YouTube. You’ll find many videos demonstrating the different pronunciations.

To help me give you even more personalized guidance, could you tell me:

  • What kind of English are you learning? (e.g., American, British, Australian, etc.)

Usage and examples with the word sure in English

Let's break down how to use the word "sure" in English. It's a versatile word with a bunch of different meanings and ways to incorporate it into your speech and writing.

1. As an Adverb (Expressing Certainty):

This is the most common usage. "Sure" means "certain" or "definitely."

  • Example: "Are you sure you want to go?" (Do you really want to?)
  • Example: "I'm sure it's going to rain." (I'm certain it will rain.)
  • Example: “Sure, I’ll be there.” (Definitely, I will be there.)

2. As a Determiner (Preceding a Noun - "Absolutely"):

When placed before a noun, "sure" intensifies the noun, indicating complete or absolute agreement, willingness, or certainty.

  • Example: “Sure, that’s a great idea!” (Absolutely, that’s a fantastic idea.)
  • Example: “Sure, I’ll help you with that.” (Absolutely, I will assist you.)
  • Example: “Sure, let's go to the movies.” (Definitely, let's go to the movies.)

3. As a Verb (To Make Sure - Guarantee):

"Sure" can also be used as a verb, meaning to ensure or guarantee something.

  • Example: “I’ll sure that everything is locked up.” (I’ll make sure that everything is locked up.) – Note: "Sure" as a verb is less common than the other uses; “make sure” is often preferred.
  • Example: "Just sure to double-check the directions." (Just make sure to double-check the directions.)

4. As Part of Common Phrases:

  • “No problem, sure.” (Okay, it's no trouble at all.) – A polite way of agreeing to a request.
  • “Sure, let’s do it!” (Definitely, let’s do it!) – Expressing enthusiasm.
  • “Are you sure about that?” (Are you completely certain about that?) – Seeking confirmation.
  • “I’m sure of it!” (I’m absolutely certain!) – Expressing strong conviction.
  • “It's sure to be a success.” (It's guaranteed to be a success.)

5. Informal Usage – "Yeah, sure."

This is a very common, informal response to an offer or suggestion, often used to politely decline. It can sometimes sound a little dismissive if used too much.

  • Example: “Can you pick up the kids from school?” “Sure, yeah, sure.” (Okay, but I’m not entirely enthusiastic.)

Tips for Using "Sure" Effectively:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "sure" changes depending on how it’s used in a sentence.
  • Don't overuse it: While it’s a useful word, too much repetition can make your speech sound monotonous.
  • Consider alternatives: Sometimes "definitely," "certainly," "absolutely," or "really" can be more precise and impactful.

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

  • What are you trying to use "sure" in? (e.g., a conversation, a writing piece, formal vs. informal?)

Synonyms for the word sure

Idioms of the word sure

be sure to do something
used to tell somebody to do something
  • Be sure to give your family my regards.
  • Be sure to check out our website.
for sure
(informal)without doubt
  • No one knows for sure what happened.
  • I think he'll be back on Monday, but I can't say for sure.
  • One thing is for sure—it's not going to be easy.
  • ‘Will you be there?’ ‘For sure.’
a good/safe/sure bet
something that is likely to happen, to succeed or to be suitable
  • He's a good bet to earn a spot on the US team.
  • Clothes are a safe bet as a present for a teenager.
  • The movie looks like a sure bet for Best Film.
make sure (of something/that…)
to do something in order to be certain that something else happens
  • Make sure (that) no one finds out about this.
  • They scored another goal and made sure of victory.
  • Our staff will do their best to make sure you enjoy your visit.
  • To make doubly sure they would not be disturbed she turned the key in the lock.
to check that something is true or has been done
  • She looked around to make sure that she was alone.
  • I think the door's locked, but I'll just go and make sure.
sure of yourself
(sometimes disapproving)very confident
  • She seems very sure of herself.
sure thing
(informal, especially North American English)used to say ‘yes’ to a suggestion or request
  • ‘Are you coming?’ ‘Sure thing.’
to be sure
(formal)used to admit that something is true
  • He is intelligent, to be sure, but he's also very lazy.

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