suresure1 /ʃɔː $ ʃʊr/ ●●● S1 W1 adjective 
‘That’s Sarah’s cousin.’ ‘Are you sure?’ ‘What time does the show start?’ ‘I’m not sure.’sure (that) I’m sure there’s a logical explanation for all this. Are you sure that you know how to get there? My mother, I felt sure, had not met him before.not sure how/where/when etc Henry wasn’t sure how to answer this.not sure if/whether I’m not sure if I’m pronouncing this correctly.sure of He wasn’t even sure of his mother’s name. They were talking about her, she was sure of that.sure about ‘That’s the man I saw in the building last night.’ ‘Are you quite sure (=completely sure) about that?’RegisterIn writing, people often prefer to use certain rather than sure, because it sounds more formal:· We cannot be certain what causes this phenomenon.2make sure a)to find out if something is true or to check that something has been done: ‘Did you lock the front door?’ ‘I think so, but I’d better make sure.’make sure (that) I wanted to make sure you were all right. First, make sure the printer has enough paper in it. b)to do something so that you can be certain of the resultmake sure (that) I’ll walk you home, just to make sure no one bothers you.make sure of (doing) something Spain made sure of their place by holding Japan to a 1–1 draw. Thomas would be sorry – she would make sure of that.3certain about your feelings [not before noun] certain about what you feel, want, like etcsure (that) Are you sure you really want a divorce?sure of Carla says she is very sure of her love for Tony.4certain to be true certain to be trueone thing is (for) sure One thing’s for sure, we’ll never be able to move this furniture on our own.sure sign/indication Those black clouds are a sure sign of rain.5certain to happen/succeed certain to happen, succeed, or have a particular resultsure to do something He’s sure to get nervous and say something stupid.sure way to do something/of doing something There was only one sure way of finding out – and that was to visit him.sure thing/bet American English (=something that will definitely happen, win, succeed etc)6be sure of (doing) something to be certain to get something or be certain that something will happen: United must beat Liverpool to be sure of winning the championship. You can be sure of one thing – there’ll be a lot of laughs.7sure of yourself confident in your own abilities and opinions, sometimes in a way that annoys other people: Kids nowadays seem very sure of themselves.8be sure to do something spoken used to tell someone to remember to do something: Be sure to ring and let us know you’ve got back safely.9for sure a)informal certainly or definitely: No one knows for sure what really happened. b)spoken used to emphasize that something is true: We’ll always need teachers, that’s for sure. c)American English informal spoken used to agree with someone10sure thing spoken informal used to agree to something: ‘Can you pick me up later?’ ‘Sure thing.’11to be sure spoken formal used to admit that something is true, before saying something that is the opposite: It was difficult, to be sure, but somehow we managed to finish the job.12(as) sure as hell spoken informal used to emphasize a statement: If I could get you out of there, I sure as hell would.13have a sure hold/footing if you have a sure hold or footing, your hands or feet are placed firmly so they cannot slip—sureness noun [uncountable]COLLOCATIONSadverbsquite sure· Are you quite sure she won’t mind?pretty sure· I’m pretty sure it was the same woman who called the office last week.absolutely sure· Don’t throw anything away until you are absolutely sure you won’t need it again.not quite/entirely sure· ‘What are they?’ ‘I’m not entirely sure.’not exactly sure· I’m not exactly sure when the funeral is.not very/too sure· Make a list of any words or phrases whose meaning you are not too sure about.not at all sure· By now, we were not at all sure where we were.THESAURUSsure adjective believing that something is definitely true or correct: · I’m sure that you’re right.· ‘The car was a BMW.’ ‘Are you sure?’· I’m not sure what the best thing to do is.certain adjective completely sure. Certain is more formal than sure, and it is very commonly used in writing: · The police were certain that they had found the killer.· I think he’s married, but I’m not certain about it.convinced adjective sure that something is true, even though you cannot prove it: · She became convinced that her boyfriend was seeing someone else.· Brown’s wife was convinced of his innocence.positive adjective especially spoken completely sure that something is true, especially when other people are not sure: · She said she was positive that the exam was next Tuesday.· I’m absolutely positive I haven’t made a mistake.satisfied adjective sure that you know the truth about something that has happened, because you have enough information: · The authorities are now satisfied that her death was an accident.confident adjective sure that something good will happen or that you will achieve something: · Doctors are confident that he’ll make a full recovery.· A spokesman said the government was confident of winning the vote.have no doubt (also be in no doubt) v phrase to have no doubts in your mind about something: · I have no doubt that his story is true.· He was in no doubt about what he should do next.know verb to have a strong feeling that something is true or correct: · I just know that she will love this necklace.· When the phone rang, we knew something terrible must have happened.
WORD ORIGINsure1
Origin:
1300-1400 Old French sur, from Latin securus; ➔ SECURE1EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- 'The car was a BMW' 'Are you sure?'
- Are you quite sure that he understood your instructions?
- I'm pretty sure Barbara still works here.
- I'm surprised she isn't here - I was sure she would come.
- I think children are influenced by these films, but it's impossible to be sure about this.
- I think Leah lives here, but I'm not sure.
- We do not believe this is the body of the missing girl, but we have to check to be absolutely sure.
- You need to be sure of your facts before making any accusations.
- Are you sure that isn't Transylvania?
- Are you sure you aren't paying too much tax?
- Clara waited, eyes on the window, until she was sure Cybil was through with the Wedding March.
- He wanted to be sure he could return to London if he didn't like his new job.
- Lou Rigatoni laughed and doffed his hat, which Madame Astarti thought was a fedora but wasn't sure.
- Moreover, how could he be sure Sir Philip would disregard his illegitimacy, as Madeleine appeared to do?
- This is where you attract the patrons and sponsors who will make sure that you get the choice assignments.
- To be sure, designers on one side may pirate good ideas, may imitate design features, from the other side.
THESAURUS
adjective believing that something is definitely true or correct: · I’m sure that you’re right.· ‘The car was a BMW.’ ‘Are you sure?’· I’m not sure what the best thing to do is.
adjective completely sure. Certain is more formal than sure, and it is very commonly used in writing: · The police were certain that they had found the killer.· I think he’s married, but I’m not certain about it.
adjective sure that something is true, even though you cannot prove it: · She became convinced that her boyfriend was seeing someone else.· Brown’s wife was convinced of his innocence.
adjective especially spoken completely sure that something is true, especially when other people are not sure: · She said she was positive that the exam was next Tuesday.· I’m absolutely positive I haven’t made a mistake.
adjective sure that you know the truth about something that has happened, because you have enough information: · The authorities are now satisfied that her death was an accident.
adjective sure that something good will happen or that you will achieve something: · Doctors are confident that he’ll make a full recovery.· A spokesman said the government was confident of winning the vote.
(also be in no doubt) v phrase to have no doubts in your mind about something: · I have no doubt that his story is true.· He was in no doubt about what he should do next.
verb to have a strong feeling that something is true or correct: · I just know that she will love this necklace.· When the phone rang, we knew something terrible must have happened.
Longman Language Activatorwhen you feel sure about something if you are sure about something, you believe that it is definitely true or correct: · 'The car was a BMW' 'Are you sure?'sure (that): · I'm surprised she isn't here - I was sure she would come.· Are you quite sure that he understood your instructions?sure about: · I think children are influenced by these films, but it's impossible to be sure about this.sure of: · You need to be sure of your facts before making any accusations.pretty sure: · I'm pretty sure Barbara still works here.absolutely sure: · We do not believe this is the body of the missing girl, but we have to check to be absolutely sure.
completely sure that something is true: certain (that): · Are you certain you didn't leave your keys at home?certain about: · He was certain about one thing - she would come back one day.certain of: · She won't let you borrow the car - I'm certain of that.absolutely certain: · Don't stop looking until you're absolutely certain you've found the place you want.
especially spoken completely sure that something is true - use this especially when other people are saying it might not be true: · "Are you sure you locked the door?" "Yes, I'm positive."positive (that): · She said she was positive the exam was next Tuesday.absolutely positive: · I'm absolutely positive I haven't made a mistake.
sure that something is true, even when you cannot prove it: convinced (that): · We've had no news of him, but we're convinced he's still alive.· She became convinced that her boyfriend was seeing someone else.convinced of: · Brown's wife was convinced of his innocence.
to be so certain about something that there are no doubts in your mind: have no doubt (that): · I've no doubt that his story is true.have no doubt about/of: · My boss told me he had no doubt about my abilities as a salesman.
to have a strong feeling that something is right or true, although there may be nothing to prove: know (that): · Sally knew that she and Carl would be the best of friends.· I just know your mother will love this necklace.· As soon as the phone rang, we knew something terrible must have happened.know it: · She's going to pass -- I just know it!
sure that you know the truth about something that has happened, because you have enough information: satisfied (that): · Police are now satisfied that her death was an accident.
sure that something good will happen, or that you will be able to achieve what you want: · ''Do you think you'll win tomorrow's game?'' - ''Well, we're all feeling pretty confident''.confident (that): · Doctors are confident that he'll make a full recovery.confident of: · A spokesman said the government was confident of winning the vote and would not discuss the possibility of defeat.
spoken informal say this when you feel sure that something is true: I bet (that): · I bet you're tired after such a long journey.· I bet she hasn't told her parents about this.
especially spoken if you say that something must be true or must have happened, you are sure about it, because of information you have or things you have noticed that make it seem very likely: · You must remember Sally Newton. She was in our French class.must have: · Kim didn't answer when I called - she must have gone to bed.· She didn't get into movies just because her mother was a famous actress, but it must have helped.
especially spoken if you say that something can't be true or can't have happened, you are sure that it is not true or has not happened: · He says he's 21 but he can't be older than 18.can't have: · She can't have gone to bed yet - it's only 8 o'clock.· If you failed that exam you can't have worked very hard.
you say I'd put money on it when you are so sure of something that you would be willing to take the chance of losing money if you were wrong: · "Do you really think the president will win again?'' "I'd put money on it.''
to make someone sure about something to make someone sure about something, especially when this is difficult to do: · Our new policy on tax reform will certainly help the economy. The only problem will be convincing the voters.convince somebody (that): · The discovery of a body finally convinced Mrs Hayes that her son was dead.· I had tried to convince my company's president that these ideas were viable.convince somebody of something: · How many more deaths will it take to convince the authorities of the need to test drugs more thoroughly?
not sure if something is true or if something will happen · "What time does the film start?" "I think it's 8.30, but I'm not sure."not sure how/whether/when etc · I'm not sure where she lives.· I'm not sure how long it will take the bus to get there.not sure about · If you're not sure about the meaning of a word, look it up in a dictionary.not sure of · Use the 'Filesearch' function if you are not sure of the name of a file.can't be sure spoken (=when you think something is true, but you are not completely sure) · I can't be sure, but I think I saw Maggie coming out of the hospital this morning.
not sure about something. Not certain is more formal than not sure: · The man you're looking for could be Keith, but I'm not certain.not certain about: · I'm not certain about what time the buses come - I usually cycle.not certain how/why/where etc: · I'm really not certain how much fuel we've got left.
to not be at all sure if something is true or if something will happen: · "How old is she?" "Oh, I don't know - fifty, fifty-five?"not know if/whether/how etc: · I phoned her but I don't know if she got my message.· We do not know whether the lake is safe for swimming in.not know for sure especially spoken: · It could be this week but it might be much later. We don't know for sure.
Unsure and uncertain are more formal than not sure and not certain .: unsure/uncertain about: · I'm still a bit unsure about how to use this software.unsure/uncertain of: · Many workers are still unsure of their rights.unsure/uncertain who/what/whether etc: · David decided to become a teacher but was uncertain which subject to specialize in.
a feeling of not being sure whether something is true or correct: doubt about: · There are still some doubts about her suitability for the job.doubt as to: · There seems to be some doubt as to what warnings were given.
to think about something that you are not sure about, and try to guess what is true, what will happen, etc: · He says he's had no formal training but when you see how good his work is, you start to wonder.wonder if/how/whether etc: · I wonder if she'll recognize me after all these years.· He wondered whether he would be able to find the hotel again.
not sure if you should do something or if something is good or right to not be sure whether you should do something or whether it is good or right: · Peter promised that it was all for the best, but I still had doubts.have doubts about: · Any doubts Jo had about marrying him soon disappeared.have your doubts: · We had our doubts about the car's reliability from the start.
to feel that some things about a plan, idea etc are not good or right, so that you think there may be problems or difficulties: · I know you're very keen to move to the US, but I'm afraid I still have reservations.have reservations about: · Many teachers are likely to have reservations about the new tests.
to not be sure whether something is good or right, because you are worried about what will happen if it is done: · We didn't try to stop our son from joining the army, but we both had misgivings.have misgivings about: · Even the government's most loyal supporters have misgivings about changes to the education system.have serious misgivings (=be very unsure): · At the time, many doctors had serious misgivings about the new treatment.
to be unable to say that something is definitely good or right, because there are both good and bad things about it: · I have very mixed feelings -- I want to travel but I know I'll miss my family.have mixed feelings about: · She had mixed feelings about her daughter getting married so young.
to be not sure whether you should do something, because you can think of ways in which it could go wrong: · I was a bit dubious at first, but the water looked cool and inviting, so I dived in.be dubious about: · Most universities are dubious about accepting students over the age of 30.
someone who is hesitant is nervous or unsure about doing something, and therefore pauses before doing it or does it slowly and without confidence: · He was a little hesitant at first, but soon he had told her everything.hesitant about: · I was hesitant about approaching the boss directly.hesitant to do something: · It is not surprising that the government was hesitant to introduce such major reforms.
to not make a definite decision because you have doubts: waver between: · Maya wavered between accepting and refusing his offer.waver about: · If people have been wavering about giving the police information, this could be the thing to make them come forward.
to make someone feel unsure about something: make sb unsure/uncertain about · The news about the bomb made me uncertain about travelling to the area.make sb unsure/uncertain of · Her previous experiences made her very unsure of the wisdom of marrying again.
to make people become unsure about something they were previously fairly sure about: · I don't want to raise too many doubts, but I wonder whether he's really fit for the job.raise doubts about/over: · Her report has raised doubts about the likely success of this project.raise doubts in somebody's mind: · The new evidence raised doubts in the minds of jury members.
especially spoken use this to say that something makes you unsure about a previous belief: · They obviously know each other. It makes you wonder.it makes you wonder if/whether etc: · So many people believe in astrology, it makes you wonder if it's all true.· His behaviour after hearing my news made me wonder if he knew more than he had told me.
what you say when you are advising someone spoken · You should go to the doctor with that cough.· I think you should stay here until you've sobered up.· That new restaurant's great -- you really ought to try it.· Do you know what you ought to do? You ought to tell her exactly what you think of her.
spoken say this when you are giving someone friendly advice: · I wouldn't do that if I were you.· Here's your money -- if I were you I'd put it in the bank right now.
spoken say this when you are advising someone how to do something in a better way: · The ferry takes about eight hours! You'd be better off going by plane.· I think you'd be better off using a knife rather than scissors for that job.
spoken say this when you think that someone should do something because you know from your own experience how unpleasant or difficult something can be: · Take my advice - don't go into teaching unless you're absolutely committed.· Divorces are a nightmare. Take my advice and stay single.
spoken say this when you are telling someone that they should trust the advice you are giving them because it is based on your personal experience: · Take it from me, you'll regret it if you waste your time at school.· Love affairs with colleagues never work out -- take it from me.
especially written use this when you are strongly advising someone to do something, especially because they may have trouble if they do not do it: · Before your interview you'd be well advised to have another look at what you put on the application form.· There are parts of Detroit you'd be well advised to avoid.
formal use this when you are strongly advising someone not to do something because it would be dangerous or stupid: · On no account should you attempt this exercise if you're pregnant.not on any account: · You shouldn't sign the contract unless you are sure you understand it. Not on any account.
spoken say this when you do not want someone to make a mistake, for example by forgetting to do something or losing something: · Make sure that you take your passport.· Make sure you lock all the doors and windows at night.
spoken say this when you are telling someone what you think the best way of dealing with a particular situation is, based on your own experience: · The best thing is to just ignore her. She'll soon take the hint.
spoken say this especially when you are warning someone to be careful about something: · A word of advice: when you're at the interview don't mention that you used to work in a bar.
to make certain that something will happen Make sure is more common in spoken English than make certain: · I think Harry knows the way, but I'll go with him just to make sure.make sure/make certain (that): · Make sure you lock your car.· You must make sure that your dog is vaccinated against illness.· The producer must make certain there is enough material to fill the one-hour programme.
also ensure British to do something in order to be certain that something will happen in the way you want it to: · To insure accuracy, three consultants worked closely with the producer during filming.insure/ensure that: · It is important to insure that universities have enough funds to carry out important research.· A new television campaign has been launched to ensure that the victims are not forgotten.
especially spoken to make sure that something someone has asked you to do is done: · I'll see that Jason isn't late for school again!· Will you please see to it that this work is finished by the end of the week.see to it: · "This letter must be posted today.'' "Don't worry, I'll see to it.''
when something will definitely happen use this to say that you are completely sure that something will happen or that someone will do something. Definitely is more common in spoken English than certainly: · I'll certainly be glad when this course is over.· Roger and Andy are definitely coming, but I'm not sure about Nancy.· We'll certainly be back by 7 o'clock.· Owen is injured and will definitely miss the game on Saturday.
informal if you say that something will happen for sure , you mean it will certainly happen: · Yeah, you'll see him. He'll be there for sure.· Milan are going to win the cup for sure. They're just such a strong team.that's for sure: · She'll come home when she runs out of money, that's for sure.
if something is bound to happen it is certain to happen, especially because that is what always happens: · The kids are bound to be hungry when they get home -- they always are.· My car broke down today. It was bound to happen sooner or later.· Have you asked Ted? He's sure to know.· The drop in prices and lack of demand are certain to affect the manufacturing industry.
use this to say that something is certain to happen but no one knows exactly when: · You'll learn how to do it eventually -- it's only a matter of time.· Your father is dying and there's nothing we can do. I'm afraid it's just a matter of time.it's only/just a matter of time before: · It was only a matter of time before Lynn found out Phil's secret.
if something is cut and dried , it is certain to happen in a particular way because it has already been planned or decided, and nothing can be done to change it: · My future was cut and dried. I would join my father's firm, and take it over when he retired.· We made the arrangements weeks ago. It's all cut and dried.
if something is a certainty , it is certain to happen, especially because the situation has changed and made it certain: · Johnson was the fastest man on earth, and a gold medal seemed a certainty.· Being left alone in her old age, the fate she had always feared, now became a certainty.
if something, especially a result, is a foregone conclusion, it is certain to happen even though it has not yet been officially decided: · Ian's bound to get the job -- it's a foregone conclusion.· The outcome of the battle was a foregone conclusion.
certain to win or succeed if someone is destined to do or become something, they will certainly do it or become it, especially something that will make them famous or admired: · She was convinced that her little boy was destined to become President.· Clara worked in a factory and sang in clubs at weekends - but even then you could tell that she was destined to become a star.
formal to be certain to get something good or to be successful: · After the success of its recent single, the band is now assured of a contract with a major record company.· Our clients are assured of comfortable accommodation and the attention of our trained staff.
spoken informal use this to say that someone or something will definitely win or succeed: · I'm betting on Sceptre. He's a dead cert to win the Gold Cup.
spoken use this to say that something or someone will definitely be successful: · We've been through the plan a dozen times. It can't go wrong.· Just follow the instructions and you can't go wrong.
spoken informal use this to say that you will certainly get something you want, or something you want will certainly happen, because you have almost got it or it has almost happened already: · You're bound to get Bill's job when he leaves - it's in the bag.be in the bag: · If we win the next game, the championship's in the bag.
use this to say that it is almost certain something will happen because of what you know of the situation: · I told my friends it was a sure thing, and they bet every last penny on that horse of yours.it's a safe bet/it's a sure bet/it's a sure thing (that): · If the President supports him it's a sure bet that he'll get a seat in Congress.· As it was the first concert of the season it was a safe bet all the critics would be there.
a foolproof plan or method is one that is certain to work and be successful: · A pasta book is a foolproof gift for anyone who cooks.foolproof method/system/plan etc: · The new speech recognition system is not absolutely foolproof, but it is a huge breakthrough.· The gang hit on a seemingly foolproof way of getting drugs into the country.
someone who cheats to do something in order to find out whether something is really true or correct: · "Are you sure this is the right phone number?" "Yes, I've just checked."· You'd better check the figures one more time - we don't want any mistakes.check that: · I'll just check that I locked the door.· Check that the meat is cooked thoroughly before serving it.check if/whether: · Before your trip, check if your insurance covers you abroad.check to see if/whether: · Let's check to see if she's OK.
to make sure that something, especially something that someone else has told you, is actually true: check out something: · We got in touch with the bank to check out the suspect's story.check something out: · What he said didn't seem quite right, so I decided to check it out.
to check that a situation is really the way you want or expect it to be: · I don't think Jo's back yet, but you can knock on her door just to make sure.make sure/make certain (that): · Make certain the car is in good condition before you sign the rental agreement.· I phoned the hotel to make sure that they had reserved a room for us.
to check something a second time, so that you are completely sure: · "Did you switch the heating off?" "Yes, I double-checked."· I don't think I made a mistake. I checked and double-checked all my calculations.double-check that: · Double-check that the computer file was properly copied.
formal to officially check a fact or statement and show that it is correct: · You can verify the facts in the report by calling his office.verify that: · Doctors have verified that the injury was indeed work-related.
to check that an arrangement you have made has happened or is still going to happen: · Have you called to confirm your flight yet?confirm that: · Let me just confirm that the money has arrived in your account.
formal to find out if a fact that you think is true is really true: ascertain something: · The case remains a mystery. The police were never able to ascertain the true facts.ascertain that: · The pathologist ascertained that the victim had died from a gunshot wound.ascertain how/when/why etc: · A doctor should examine the patient to ascertain where the pain is localized.ascertain: · As far as we have been able to ascertain, our client is not involved in anything illegal.
confident sure that you have the ability to do something well, and not worried about failing: · It's a difficult test, but she seems fairly confident.· He gave his speech in a strong, confident voice.confident about: · After living in France for a year, I felt much more confident about my French.be/feel confident about (doing) something: · I'm not very confident about going back to work.confident of: · Baldwin is confident of victory in this year's senate race.
someone who is self-confident is very confident about their own abilities and is not shy or nervous in social situations: · Jess was only 12, but she was very self-confident.· I eventually became more self-confident as a public speaker.supremely self-confident (=extremely self-confident): · She was supremely self-confident, with the gift of being able to talk on any subject whenever the camera was rolling.
very confident in your own abilities and able to deal calmly with other people, especially in public situations: · Having done this many times before, she was self-assured and spoke without notes.· On the surface Dana was calm and self-assured, but I knew that this wasn't completely the case.
someone who is assertive behaves confidently so that they get what they want: · Jack has a very assertive personality.· The course helps women learn how to be more assertive in the workplace.
very sure that what you think is right, even when other people do not agree with you: · He sounded so sure of himself that I didn't bother to argue.· Jenny was younger than her sister but seemed much more sure of herself.
someone who enjoys being with other people and getting a lot of attention from other people: · Jan says her twin babies are completely different: Kelly is a real extrovert while Jessie is quiet and thoughtful.· Most actors are natural extroverts.· He's a total extrovert who will talk to any stranger.
not caring about something: don't think (that) · At first I didn't think that Jim was going to reply.· I don't think many people will come to the meeting, do you?don't think so · "Do we have any coffee left?'' "I don't think so -- I'll have a look.''· "Is Mr Brown there?'' "No, I don't think so, I saw him go out earlier.''
to think that something will probably not happen or is probably not true: doubt if/whether: · We'd better go to the party, but I doubt if it'll be very exciting.· I doubt whether I'll be able to find a decent car for the price I can afford. doubt (that): · Some people doubted that the attacks on the American ships had actually taken place.very much doubt/doubt very much: · I very much doubt whether we'll get someone for the job by September.seriously doubt: · At the time we seriously doubted that the doctor had got the diagnosis right.doubt it: · It was possible that Maggie had been delayed, but he doubted it.
if you are doubtful about something, you do not believe that it will happen or should be done: · Mick felt optimistic about going to work in Hong Kong, but Sue was doubtful.· My brother looked doubtful when I asked him if he'd mind looking after the baby.be doubtful about: · A lot of us felt doubtful about the project at the beginning.be doubtful (that): · The doctor said she was doubtful that antibiotics would work.it is doubtful whether/that/if: · It is doubtful that life could survive under such extreme conditions as these.
if you are dubious about something, you do not think it is a good idea or that it is true: · "Do you think they'll let us in?'' Gabby looked dubious.be dubious about: · Marian is still dubious about whether any of the government's "solutions" will work.
spoken say this when you think something is very unlikely to happen or is very unlikely to be true: · I'd be surprised if they get here in time for the show.· I'd be very surprised if Ronnie got the job -- he just doesn't have enough experience.
spoken say this when you think that something is unlikely to happen or be true, especially when you are not completely sure that you are right: I wouldn't have thought (that): · I wouldn't have thought that there would be much traffic on a Sunday morning.I wouldn't have thought so: · "Will John and Carmen be coming tonight?" "I wouldn't have thought so. They're very busy at the moment."
spoken use this in order to say politely that you think what someone has said is unlikely: · "I think Kate and Eddie will end up getting married." "Really? I'm not sure about that."
to remember something that you must do or need to have · Did you remember your dictionary? · Remember, the examiner will expect you to demonstrate a knowledge of motorway driving too.remember to do something · Did you remember to lock the back door?· I hope Dean remembers to buy some stamps.remember (that) · Do you think Kim remembers that we're supposed to be there at 8?
to remember something you must do - use this especially when it seems likely that you will not remember something: · Don't worry, I won't forget.· Don't forget your keys.not forget to do something: · I hope she doesn't forget to water the plants.· You mustn't forget to switch that off when you've finished.not forget (that): · I might be home late, but I haven't forgotten that we're going out.don't forget to do something: · Don't forget to turn out the lights before you leave.
if you tell someone to be sure to do something, you want them to remember that it is important that they do it: be sure to do something: · Be sure to ring me when you get in.be sure and do something: · Be sure and let me know if you need anything.be sure (that): · Be sure that you make the effort to vote this year.· Be sure you have your driver's license and insurance ready to show the officer.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRYadverbs I think he’s still living in Chicago, but I don’t know for sure. His sure touch (=confident way of doing things) and attention to detail are just as evident now.
· Are you quite sure she won’t mind?
· I’m pretty sure it was the same woman who called the office last week.
· Don’t throw anything away until you are absolutely sure you won’t need it again.
· ‘What are they?’ ‘I’m not entirely sure.’
· I’m not exactly sure when the funeral is.
· Make a list of any words or phrases whose meaning you are not too sure about.
· By now, we were not at all sure where we were.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES (=think that something is definitely true) She felt sure she’d made the right decision.
She felt sure she’d made the right decision. I think he’s still living in Chicago, but I don’t know for sure. (=a very clear sign)· He was walking up and down, a sure sign that he was worried.
His sure touch (=confident way of doing things) and attention to detail are just as evident now.· Improving your diet is the surest way to lower your risk of heart disease.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB· And make absolutely sure the policy you buy covers you for winter sports and not just travel.· I am absolutely sure that my friend Jimmy Wall and I failed in our attempt to set a record.· And until she's sure, you can't be absolutely sure yourself.· And one final thing, just to make absolutely sure.· Not absolutely sure about that, yet absolutely sure yes? - that you are perfectly happy here.· We have to be absolutely sure that only the pollen we want reaches the stigma.· For we can be absolutely sure she was there, the whole time.· Don't throw anything away until you are absolutely sure you won't need it again.
· I saw you two had your heads bowed and I was pretty sure it wasn't religious devotion.· Marine scientists were pretty sure a coral reef, like any complex ecosystem, must be assembled in the correct order.· He was pretty sure that was new.· I was pretty sure Dilip would find the dang about as interesting as mud.· A glance at the map made Charles pretty sure that that gun was now in the Thames.· I was pretty sure before I went up to her apartment, but that clinched it.· But she was pretty sure Uncle Albert would find it interesting.· He said nothing but I was pretty sure he was close to tears.
· No one in the room was quite sure what would happen next as Romanov offered no opinion.· Then thirdly, make quite sure the objective is implemented properly, so you have to monitor.· She wasn't quite sure where she hoped to get to, what she hoped to achieve, but it felt right.· She wasn't quite sure any longer.· He was not quite sure who it was, but he had certain ideas.· Still, he could not be quite sure that he always did that with his bread.· I was quite sure I hadn't called the house the previous night.
· We're so sure about the reliability of our washing machines that we've given them a full 5-year parts guarantee.· I was so sure of this, I told my husband.· But things had changed; the ground she had thought she was so sure of had shifted a little.· Her New York friends were not so sure.· Though I am not so sure.· A few miles away, in the small house that Sally, Roy and Cicely share, Sally is not so sure.· Management theorists were not so sure.· Then he learned why the Big Nurse was so sure of her hand.
NOUN· He pulled the ball; a sure sign he was choking.· These are the sure signs that green corn tamale season is in full swing.· The oyster boats were still fixed to the moorings, a sure sign that Oystermouth was in mourning.· He complained that newcomers forgot to bring church membership certificates along, a sure sign that they expected no church at all.· Last week saw talk of intervention to underpin the euro, a sure sign that policymakers are starting to be concerned.· The Presidential lips pursed, a sure sign of anger.· We sighted a fishing boat in the distance, a sure sign of more sheltered water.· He scratched his head, a sure sign of thought.
· There will be no surer way of rendering the divisional championship worthless than introducing a tiny club super-league.· This will likely be the only sure way they have of increasing their base pay level. 5.· The only sure way to reduce the danger is to reduce the world's store of uranium and plutonium.· Instantly she saw a surer way to defend herself than with an ax.· But the only sure way to tell if the sett is in use is to watch it.· The surest way to do that is to get a poor child a ticket to a good school.· Never use rubber bands to tie back your hair: it's a sure way to get hair breakage.· Understanding and planning for your own needs-as well as the needs of your business-is the surest way to succeed.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► have a sure hold/footingPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES
1certain you know something [not before noun] confident that you know something or that something is true or correct SYN certain: - Go ahead and try, if you're so sure of yourself.
- He sounded so sure of himself that I didn't bother to argue.
- Jenny was younger than her sister but seemed much more sure of herself.
- Gentiles resented the trekkers, but the Saints grew ever more sure of themselves.
- He's all mixed up and dead sure of himself.
- He was just too beautiful, too confident, too sure of himself.
- Nephthys was younger than her brother, but seemed older, and more sure of herself.
- Robert the next day seemed urbane, sure of himself, even, she thought, pleased with himself.
- She is utterly fearless and sure of herself, small in stature but large in moxie.
- The children were hardly children, so capable and sure of themselves were they.
- We no longer are so sure of ourselves or of our past.
- Be sure to read all the directions carefully.
- Minnie would be sure to notice - interested as she was in every tiny thing Polly did or said.
- New paradigms are sure to emerge.
- Partners should watch each other and be sure to agree on the moves.
- Payton is sure to be compensated come July 1, when he becomes a free agent.
- Third, as you are doing your taxes, be sure to check the box requesting your contributions to federal campaign funds.
- To punch a ticket is to play a game you are sure to win.
- Tuesday, she made news that was sure to get around, even to out-of-the-way McClain.
- Unemployment is sure to play its part.
- Milan are going to win the cup for sure. They're just such a strong team.
- No one knows for sure how many people are infected.
- She'll come home when she runs out of money, that's for sure.
- Yeah, you'll see him. He'll be there for sure.
- Elbert cautioned, however, that funding is far from a sure thing.
- Helen has no inhibitions about mixing woods, or making sure things match in style or period.
- In either case, the outcome is pretty much a sure thing.
- Kip was sure things were going to turn out great.
- Our idea was that at last we could have a real go at it, make sure things worked out.
- That gives you an idea of how much of a sure thing Lyubov Klochko turned out to be on Sunday.
- The only sure thing in Iowa is that nothing is sure.
- They wanted instant access, just to make sure things were in place.
- It was difficult, to be sure, but somehow we managed to finish the job.
- Dole and Gramm, to be sure, enjoy fund-raising advantages of their own, as powerful long-serving senators.
- Get a vet to check him over to be sure.
- He had wanted to be sure before tackling Mary Penrose; now he was.
- No match for open, urban brown-water, to be sure.
- The outside air temperature was above minimum, but I switched on the engine anti-ice anyway, just to be sure.
- There was, to be sure, a minority position.
- They put me though every test in the book to be sure I was healthy.
- I'm sure as hell not gonna do it.
- Alan, if I could get you out of there, I sure as hell would.
- And they sure as hell don't understand any of us.
- But it will sure as hell make him think twice before risking it.
- Goddamn that tune, it sure as hell sounds familiar!
- I as sure as hell don't want it.
- I don't think I scare easily, but I sure as hell scared myself that weekend.
- Not even that low humming sound which I knew sure as hell wasn't the thermostat on the fridge.
- They sure as hell don't need your paper and even less journalists like Steven Wells with his repetitive, egotistical comments!
- I know I asked you before, but I just wanted to make sure.
- He just makes sure that everyone in his team knows the job they have to do and the accountabilities they hold.
- He must take full responsibility for making sure his requirements are met.
- I checked the phone cord and made sure it was plugged in correctly.
- If you missed the Contest of Champions this year, make sure you don't in 1993.
- If your cheesemonger cuts a Swaledale for the person in front of you, make sure that you take a piece as well.
- Once you have issued the invitation it is important to make sure that the photographers will be able to do their job.
- So next time you hit the road make sure it doesn't hit back.
- We must go at once to make sure.
- After all, he was sure of 100 percent of the vote from the north.
- And I was sure of it!
- But nobody is sure of the white extremists' power.
- Females evolved the ability to be charmed to be sure of picking the best males.
- Mummy was worried because she didn't know when daddy was coming home - Anna was sure of that now.
- The prisoners can each be sure of benefiting if they have a previously agreed pact never to confess, whatever the circumstances.
- The reporters were sure of their facts, he told Moore.
- The sea was such a mess that it took him a few moments to be sure of the reef.
- As soon as a board attempts to interfere with management tasks it's a fair bet that profits will decline.
- He may not fancy it, but it's a safe bet that he would be the first man to do it.
- Since they're not, it's a fair bet that they show something she doesn't want you to know.
- Alan, if I could get you out of there, I sure as hell would.
- And they sure as hell don't understand any of us.
- But it will sure as hell make him think twice before risking it.
- Goddamn that tune, it sure as hell sounds familiar!
- I as sure as hell don't want it.
- I don't think I scare easily, but I sure as hell scared myself that weekend.
- Not even that low humming sound which I knew sure as hell wasn't the thermostat on the fridge.
- They sure as hell don't need your paper and even less journalists like Steven Wells with his repetitive, egotistical comments!
‘That’s Sarah’s cousin.’ ‘Are you sure?’ ‘What time does the show start?’ ‘I’m not sure.’sure (that) I’m sure there’s a logical explanation for all this. Are you sure that you know how to get there? My mother, I felt sure, had not met him before.not sure how/where/when etc Henry wasn’t sure how to answer this.not sure if/whether I’m not sure if I’m pronouncing this correctly.sure of He wasn’t even sure of his mother’s name. They were talking about her, she was sure of that.sure about ‘That’s the man I saw in the building last night.’ ‘Are you quite sure (=completely sure) about that?’RegisterIn writing, people often prefer to use certain rather than sure, because it sounds more formal:· We cannot be certain what causes this phenomenon.2make sure a)to find out if something is true or to check that something has been done: ‘Did you lock the front door?’ ‘I think so, but I’d better make sure.’make sure (that) I wanted to make sure you were all right. First, make sure the printer has enough paper in it. b)to do something so that you can be certain of the resultmake sure (that) I’ll walk you home, just to make sure no one bothers you.make sure of (doing) something Spain made sure of their place by holding Japan to a 1–1 draw. Thomas would be sorry – she would make sure of that.3certain about your feelings [not before noun] certain about what you feel, want, like etcsure (that) Are you sure you really want a divorce?sure of Carla says she is very sure of her love for Tony.4certain to be true certain to be trueone thing is (for) sure One thing’s for sure, we’ll never be able to move this furniture on our own.sure sign/indication Those black clouds are a sure sign of rain.5certain to happen/succeed certain to happen, succeed, or have a particular resultsure to do something He’s sure to get nervous and say something stupid.sure way to do something/of doing something There was only one sure way of finding out – and that was to visit him.sure thing/bet American English (=something that will definitely happen, win, succeed etc)6be sure of (doing) something to be certain to get something or be certain that something will happen: United must beat Liverpool to be sure of winning the championship. You can be sure of one thing – there’ll be a lot of laughs.7sure of yourself confident in your own abilities and opinions, sometimes in a way that annoys other people: Kids nowadays seem very sure of themselves.8be sure to do something spoken used to tell someone to remember to do something: Be sure to ring and let us know you’ve got back safely.9for sure a)informal certainly or definitely: No one knows for sure what really happened. b)spoken used to emphasize that something is true: We’ll always need teachers, that’s for sure. c)American English informal spoken used to agree with someone10sure thing spoken informal used to agree to something: ‘Can you pick me up later?’ ‘Sure thing.’11to be sure spoken formal used to admit that something is true, before saying something that is the opposite: It was difficult, to be sure, but somehow we managed to finish the job.12(as) sure as hell spoken informal used to emphasize a statement: If I could get you out of there, I sure as hell would.13have a sure hold/footing if you have a sure hold or footing, your hands or feet are placed firmly so they cannot slip—sureness noun [uncountable]COLLOCATIONSadverbsquite sure· Are you quite sure she won’t mind?pretty sure· I’m pretty sure it was the same woman who called the office last week.absolutely sure· Don’t throw anything away until you are absolutely sure you won’t need it again.not quite/entirely sure· ‘What are they?’ ‘I’m not entirely sure.’not exactly sure· I’m not exactly sure when the funeral is.not very/too sure· Make a list of any words or phrases whose meaning you are not too sure about.not at all sure· By now, we were not at all sure where we were.THESAURUSsure adjective believing that something is definitely true or correct: · I’m sure that you’re right.· ‘The car was a BMW.’ ‘Are you sure?’· I’m not sure what the best thing to do is.certain adjective completely sure. Certain is more formal than sure, and it is very commonly used in writing: · The police were certain that they had found the killer.· I think he’s married, but I’m not certain about it.convinced adjective sure that something is true, even though you cannot prove it: · She became convinced that her boyfriend was seeing someone else.· Brown’s wife was convinced of his innocence.positive adjective especially spoken completely sure that something is true, especially when other people are not sure: · She said she was positive that the exam was next Tuesday.· I’m absolutely positive I haven’t made a mistake.satisfied adjective sure that you know the truth about something that has happened, because you have enough information: · The authorities are now satisfied that her death was an accident.confident adjective sure that something good will happen or that you will achieve something: · Doctors are confident that he’ll make a full recovery.· A spokesman said the government was confident of winning the vote.have no doubt (also be in no doubt) v phrase to have no doubts in your mind about something: · I have no doubt that his story is true.· He was in no doubt about what he should do next.know verb to have a strong feeling that something is true or correct: · I just know that she will love this necklace.· When the phone rang, we knew something terrible must have happened.