§ What Does "Sure" Mean?
- Definition
- To be sure means to feel certain that something is true or will happen. It describes a state of having no doubt and being confident in your knowledge or a decision.
The word “sure” is a common and versatile adjective in English. At its core, it expresses a feeling of certainty or conviction. When you are “sure” about something, it means you have no doubts; you are confident in your knowledge or belief. This confidence can come from direct experience, strong evidence, or a deep understanding of a situation.
Think of it as the opposite of being unsure, doubtful, or hesitant. Being sure gives you a sense of stability and clarity. It’s a powerful word that conveys a firm mental state.
§ When Do People Use "Sure"?
People use “sure” in a wide variety of contexts, often to express certainty, agreement, or to confirm information. Here are some of the most common situations:
- Expressing certainty about facts or knowledge: This is perhaps the most straightforward use. If you know something to be true, you can say you are “sure” of it.
I’m sure that the sun rises in the east.
- Confirming a decision or plan: When you have made up your mind and are confident in your choice, “sure” is the perfect word.
Are you sure you want to go to the park?
Yes, I’m absolutely sure!
- Giving assurance to someone: You can use “sure” to make someone else feel confident or to relieve their worries.
Don't worry, I’m sure everything will be fine.
- Expressing agreement or consent: When someone asks for a favor or suggests something, “sure” can be a polite and informal way to agree.
“Can you help me with this?” “Sure!”
- Indicating inevitability: Sometimes “sure” is used to suggest that something is bound to happen, often with a hint of expectation.
He’s sure to win the game if he keeps practicing.
The flexibility of “sure” makes it a fundamental word for everyday communication. It allows speakers to convey their level of confidence, from a gentle agreement to an absolute conviction.
§ Tips for Using "Sure"
Understanding “sure” at an A1 CEFR level means being able to recognize its core meaning of certainty and to use it in simple sentences to express your confidence or agree with others. As you progress in English, you'll discover even more nuances and common expressions that incorporate this essential word.
Exemples par niveau
I am sure that with meticulous planning and diligent execution, we can surmount any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the project's implementation phase.
I am confident that with careful planning and hard work, we can overcome any unexpected problems during the project.
Using 'I am sure that' to express strong conviction about a future outcome.
Despite the prevailing skepticism within the industry, the CEO remained sure of the disruptive potential of their nascent technology, a conviction that ultimately proved prescient.
Even with widespread doubt in the industry, the CEO was certain about the groundbreaking potential of their new technology, and he turned out to be right.
'Remained sure of' indicates a steadfast belief against opposing views.
The scientific community was sure that the intricate molecular structure they had synthesized held the key to a breakthrough in treating intractable diseases.
Scientists were certain that the complex molecule they created would lead to a major advance in treating difficult diseases.
'Was sure that' expresses a collective certainty within a group.
She wasn't entirely sure whether the intricate nuances of the legal brief had been fully grasped by her junior colleague, prompting a thorough review.
She wasn't completely certain if her new colleague fully understood the subtle details of the legal document, so she reviewed it carefully.
'Wasn't entirely sure whether' conveys a degree of uncertainty about a past event or understanding.
Are you absolutely sure that all the necessary protocols for data security and privacy have been rigorously adhered to, precluding any potential vulnerabilities?
Are you completely certain that all data security and privacy rules have been strictly followed, preventing any possible weaknesses?
'Absolutely sure that' emphasizes complete certainty and often seeks confirmation.
The politician, sensing the shifting tides of public opinion, was no longer quite so sure of the unwavering support he had once taken for granted.
The politician, noticing changes in public opinion, was no longer as certain about the strong support he had previously assumed.
'No longer quite so sure of' indicates a diminishing certainty over time.
I'm sure you can appreciate the gravity of the situation, given the intricate web of geopolitical factors at play and the potential ramifications.
I'm sure you understand how serious the situation is, considering the complex global issues and possible consequences.
'I'm sure you can appreciate' is a polite way to assume understanding or agreement.
To make sure that the critical components were flawlessly integrated, the engineers conducted a series of exhaustive and iterative stress tests.
To ensure the important parts worked together perfectly, the engineers performed many thorough and repeated stress tests.
'To make sure that' introduces an action taken to guarantee a desired outcome.
Modèles grammaticaux
Structures de phrases
I'm sure that...
I'm sure that he is happy.
Are you sure that...?
Are you sure that's correct?
I am sure about [noun].
I am sure about the answer.
[Someone] is sure to [verb].
She is sure to win the race.
Make sure to [verb].
Make sure to close the door.
I'm not sure if...
I'm not sure if he will come.
To be sure of [noun].
To be sure of success.
I feel sure that...
I feel sure that we made the right choice.
Teste-toi 42 questions
Write a sentence using 'sure' to express that you are confident about something. For example: 'I am sure I put my keys on the table.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I am sure the cat is sleeping.
Complete the sentence: 'Are you sure ______?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Are you sure you want to go?
Imagine your friend asks you if it will rain today. You think it will. How do you respond using 'sure'?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Yes, I am sure it will rain.
Where was Maria sure the pen was NOT?
Read this passage:
Maria lost her pen. She looks in her bag. She is sure it is not in her bag. Then she looks on the table. Yes, it is on the table!
Where was Maria sure the pen was NOT?
The passage says, 'She is sure it is not in her bag.'
The passage says, 'She is sure it is not in her bag.'
What is Tom not sure about?
Read this passage:
Tom wants to buy a new book. He sees two books. He is not sure which one to buy. One book is blue, and one book is red. He asks his friend for help.
What is Tom not sure about?
The passage says, 'He is not sure which one to buy.'
The passage says, 'He is not sure which one to buy.'
What is the speaker sure about?
Read this passage:
My mom told me to clean my room. I said, 'Yes, Mom, I will clean it.' I am sure I will clean it today. It is important to help my mom.
What is the speaker sure about?
The speaker says, 'I am sure I will clean it today.'
The speaker says, 'I am sure I will clean it today.'
Are you ___ you want to order pizza for dinner?
The word 'sure' fits here to ask if someone is certain about their dinner choice.
I'm not ___ if I closed the window. Can you check?
Using 'sure' expresses uncertainty about whether the window was closed.
She was ___ that her answer was correct on the test.
'Sure' indicates confidence in her test answer.
Please be ___ to turn off the lights when you leave.
'Be sure to' is a common phrase meaning to definitely do something.
He wasn't ___ about the time of the meeting, so he called to ask.
He wasn't certain about the meeting time.
I am ___ that we can finish this project on time.
'Sure' shows confidence in completing the project on time.
Imagine you are applying for your dream job. Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) expressing your confidence in your abilities and why you are the sure choice for the position.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I am absolutely sure that my extensive experience in project management and my proven leadership skills make me the ideal candidate for this role. I am confident in my ability to exceed expectations and contribute significantly to your team's success. My commitment and dedication ensure I will be a valuable asset from day one.
You are planning a surprise party for a friend. Write an email to another friend, explaining why you are sure the party will be a great success and what you are doing to make it so. Include details about the plans.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Hi [Friend's Name], I'm so sure this surprise party for [Other Friend's Name] is going to be a massive success! We've already booked the perfect venue and sorted out the catering with their favorite dishes. I'm also confident that everyone will love the playlist I've put together. We just need to make sure [Other Friend's Name] doesn't suspect a thing!
Describe a time when you were absolutely sure about a decision, even when others doubted you. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from the experience?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
There was a time when I was absolutely sure about pursuing a career in graphic design, despite my family encouraging a more traditional path. I was confident in my creative abilities and my passion for visual communication. The outcome was incredibly positive; I found a job I love and have built a successful portfolio. I learned the importance of trusting my instincts and being sure of my own path, even when it's not the easiest one.
According to the passage, what are experts sure about regarding artificial intelligence?
Read this passage:
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, it's difficult to be entirely sure about the future. However, experts are increasingly confident that artificial intelligence will play a pivotal role in shaping industries and daily life. While the exact timeline remains uncertain, the advancements in machine learning suggest a future where AI is not just a tool, but an integral part of our existence. Being sure of this trend allows companies to proactively invest in research and development.
According to the passage, what are experts sure about regarding artificial intelligence?
The passage states, 'However, experts are increasingly confident that artificial intelligence will play a pivotal role in shaping industries and daily life,' directly answering the question.
The passage states, 'However, experts are increasingly confident that artificial intelligence will play a pivotal role in shaping industries and daily life,' directly answering the question.
What evidence makes archaeologists sure that Pompeii's inhabitants had little warning of the eruption?
Read this passage:
The ancient ruins of Pompeii offer a haunting glimpse into Roman life, preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Archaeologists are sure that the city's inhabitants had little warning of the impending disaster, as evidenced by their activities captured in time. This tragic event, while devastating, has provided invaluable insights into the daily routines, architecture, and art of a bygone era. We can be sure that such a complete snapshot of history is rare.
What evidence makes archaeologists sure that Pompeii's inhabitants had little warning of the eruption?
The passage states, 'Archaeologists are sure that the city's inhabitants had little warning of the impending disaster, as evidenced by their activities captured in time,' indicating that their ongoing daily activities are the evidence.
The passage states, 'Archaeologists are sure that the city's inhabitants had little warning of the impending disaster, as evidenced by their activities captured in time,' indicating that their ongoing daily activities are the evidence.
What are scientists overwhelmingly sure about regarding climate change?
Read this passage:
Climate change is a global issue that requires urgent attention. Scientists are overwhelmingly sure that human activities are the primary cause of rising global temperatures and extreme weather events. While there may be some debate on the precise extent and timing of future impacts, the fundamental scientific consensus is clear. Being sure of this causation is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies and fostering international cooperation to protect our planet.
What are scientists overwhelmingly sure about regarding climate change?
The passage explicitly states, 'Scientists are overwhelmingly sure that human activities are the primary cause of rising global temperatures and extreme weather events,' directly addressing the question.
The passage explicitly states, 'Scientists are overwhelmingly sure that human activities are the primary cause of rising global temperatures and extreme weather events,' directly addressing the question.
This sentence emphasizes certainty about a future outcome.
This sentence expresses a lack of certainty regarding someone's attendance.
This question seeks confirmation of someone's unwavering confidence in a choice.
After weeks of meticulous research, she was ______ that her findings would revolutionize the field of astrophysics.
The context of 'meticulous research' and 'revolutionize the field' indicates a strong sense of certainty, making 'sure' the most appropriate choice.
Despite the prevailing skepticism, he remained ______ that his controversial theory would eventually gain widespread acceptance.
The phrase 'remained' suggests a persistent state of mind, and the contrast with 'prevailing skepticism' implies a strong personal conviction, best captured by 'sure'.
She couldn't be entirely ______ whether the intricate details of the ancient manuscript were genuine or cleverly forged.
In this context, 'sure', 'certain', and 'convinced' are all synonyms that fit the meaning of lacking certainty about the authenticity of the manuscript.
If you are 'sure' about something, you have no reservations or uncertainties.
To be 'sure' implies a complete absence of doubt or hesitation regarding a fact or outcome.
Someone who is 'sure' about a decision is likely to second-guess themselves later.
Being 'sure' means having confidence in a decision, making it unlikely for one to 'second-guess' or doubt it subsequently.
The feeling of being 'sure' can only be based on empirical evidence.
While empirical evidence can contribute to being sure, one can also be sure based on intuition, personal conviction, or logical deduction, not exclusively on observable data.
Write a short essay discussing the concept of 'certainty' in a complex decision-making process. Consider how factors like incomplete information, risk assessment, and ethical considerations can influence one's ability to be 'sure'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
In intricate decision-making scenarios, achieving absolute certainty is often an elusive goal. Leaders frequently grapple with incomplete information, necessitating a reliance on probabilistic reasoning rather than definitive facts. Furthermore, a thorough risk assessment is paramount; understanding potential consequences, both positive and negative, significantly shapes the degree to one can be 'sure' about a chosen path. Ethical considerations also play a pivotal role, as a decision might be logically sound but morally questionable, thus eroding any inherent conviction. Therefore, 'being sure' in such contexts often implies a calculated confidence, acknowledging the inherent ambiguities and complexities.
You are a legal counsel drafting a statement for a client who is 'sure' of their innocence. Craft a paragraph that clearly articulates this conviction while maintaining a professional and legally appropriate tone. Avoid using colloquialisms.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My client unequivocally asserts their innocence in this matter. They are thoroughly confident that the evidence, when fully presented and scrutinized, will corroborate their unwavering claim. This conviction stems from a profound understanding of the events and an absence of any involvement in the alleged wrongdoing. We are prepared to demonstrate, without equivocation, the veracity of their position.
Imagine you are a scientist reporting a breakthrough discovery. Write a paragraph for a scientific journal article that conveys your team's absolute 'sureness' about the results, while still adhering to scientific objectivity and avoiding overly emotional language.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The experimental data collected across multiple independent trials provides conclusive and unequivocal evidence in support of our hypothesis. The consistency of the results, coupled with rigorous statistical analysis, allows us to state with absolute certainty that this novel phenomenon has been accurately observed and characterized. Further independent verification is encouraged, but our team is robustly confident in the integrity and implications of these findings.
According to the passage, what contributes to a nation's 'sureness' in international diplomacy?
Read this passage:
In the realm of international diplomacy, the concept of 'being sure' often takes on a nuanced meaning. A nation might express its 'sureness' about a particular policy direction, not necessarily because all uncertainties have been eliminated, but rather because a strategic consensus has been reached, and the projected outcomes are deemed acceptable within a calculated risk framework. This strategic certainty is vital for maintaining a unified front and projecting strength on the global stage.
According to the passage, what contributes to a nation's 'sureness' in international diplomacy?
The passage explicitly states that 'A nation might express its 'sureness' about a particular policy direction, not necessarily because all uncertainties have been eliminated, but rather because a strategic consensus has been reached, and the projected outcomes are deemed acceptable within a calculated risk framework.'
The passage explicitly states that 'A nation might express its 'sureness' about a particular policy direction, not necessarily because all uncertainties have been eliminated, but rather because a strategic consensus has been reached, and the projected outcomes are deemed acceptable within a calculated risk framework.'
What was Descartes' primary objective in employing his method of doubt?
Read this passage:
The renowned philosopher, Descartes, famously sought to establish absolute certainty through his method of doubt. He questioned all beliefs that could possibly be doubted, aiming to arrive at foundational truths that were beyond any reasonable skepticism. His ultimate conclusion, 'Cogito, ergo sum' (I think, therefore I am), served as a cornerstone of certainty from which he believed further knowledge could be built.
What was Descartes' primary objective in employing his method of doubt?
The passage states, 'He questioned all beliefs that could possibly be doubted, aiming to arrive at foundational truths that were beyond any reasonable skepticism.'
The passage states, 'He questioned all beliefs that could possibly be doubted, aiming to arrive at foundational truths that were beyond any reasonable skepticism.'
For experienced investors in financial markets, what does 'being sure' primarily entail?
Read this passage:
In the fast-paced world of financial markets, investors often strive for a sense of 'sureness' in their decisions. However, given the inherent volatility and unpredictability of global economies, absolute certainty is a rare commodity. Experienced investors understand that 'being sure' in this context often means having a well-researched strategy, diversified portfolio, and a clear understanding of potential risks, rather than an infallible prediction of future market movements.
For experienced investors in financial markets, what does 'being sure' primarily entail?
The passage explains, 'Experienced investors understand that 'being sure' in this context often means having a well-researched strategy, diversified portfolio, and a clear understanding of potential risks, rather than an infallible prediction of future market movements.'
The passage explains, 'Experienced investors understand that 'being sure' in this context often means having a well-researched strategy, diversified portfolio, and a clear understanding of potential risks, rather than an infallible prediction of future market movements.'
Focus on the speaker's tone and the emphasis on 'sure' in the context of audacity and irrefutable evidence.
Pay attention to how 'sure' is reinforced by 'steadfast' and contrasted with 'skepticism'.
Notice the connection between 'sure' and 'infallibility', and how it relates to dismissing dissenting opinions.
Read this aloud:
Articulate a nuanced perspective on the fine line between conviction and obstinacy, using the word 'sure' to emphasize a deeply held belief.
Focus: nuanced, conviction, obstinacy, deeply held belief
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Read this aloud:
Elaborate on a hypothetical scenario where one's absolute certainty, expressed as being 'sure,' leads to either triumph or catastrophic failure. Justify the outcome.
Focus: hypothetical, absolute certainty, triumph, catastrophic failure, justify
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
Discuss the ethical implications of a leader being 'sure' of a decision that profoundly impacts many, particularly when faced with significant expert disagreement.
Focus: ethical implications, profoundly impacts, expert disagreement
Tu as dit :
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Exemple
Are you sure you turned off the oven?
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addressee
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adlocment
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admonish
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