Although these two words might sound similar when spoken and differ in spelling by only one letter, they are used in very different contexts. Due to their similarity, they are often mixed up in writing. A common phrase which crops up in many papers is, ‘in order to ensure…’. Repeated misspelling of the word ‘ensure’ or confusing it with the word ‘insure’ will be conspicuous to the reader and highlight a lack of attention to detail. Make sure that you don’t confuse the two!
Ensure
‘To ensure’ is a verb meaning to make certain or make sure that something will occur in the future. The word ‘ensure’ is found in many academic essays as it is a useful word to use when describing the reasoning behind certain methods of analysis. It would be used in a sentence like this:
‘In order to ensure that the results are accurate, it is necessary to conduct several concurrent studies…’.
Although it is often the most appropriate word choice, overuse of the word ‘ensure’ is to be avoided. Synonyms, such as ‘guarantee’, ‘make certain’ or ‘assure’ can be employed instead to make for a more interesting read.
Insure
‘To insure’ is a verb meaning to protect or secure someone or something against potential damage, loss or other misfortune by arranging for compensation should anything unfortunate occur.
It is most often used when discussing the specific topic or industry of insurance, as in the sentence:
‘Before you go abroad, make sure that your valuables are insured’.
It can also be used in a more general sense, as in the sentence:
‘By apologising profusely to the headmaster, the children hoped to insure themselves against an after school detention’.
There is a clear difference in meaning, and spelling, between these two words. Ensure that you use the correct one in your paper!
If you would like more writing guidance and advice, get in touch with the professionals at Proofread My Paper today!
Ensure
‘To ensure’ is a verb meaning to make certain or make sure that something will occur in the future. The word ‘ensure’ is found in many academic essays as it is a useful word to use when describing the reasoning behind certain methods of analysis. It would be used in a sentence like this:
‘In order to ensure that the results are accurate, it is necessary to conduct several concurrent studies…’.
Although it is often the most appropriate word choice, overuse of the word ‘ensure’ is to be avoided. Synonyms, such as ‘guarantee’, ‘make certain’ or ‘assure’ can be employed instead to make for a more interesting read.
Insure
‘To insure’ is a verb meaning to protect or secure someone or something against potential damage, loss or other misfortune by arranging for compensation should anything unfortunate occur.
It is most often used when discussing the specific topic or industry of insurance, as in the sentence:
‘Before you go abroad, make sure that your valuables are insured’.
It can also be used in a more general sense, as in the sentence:
‘By apologising profusely to the headmaster, the children hoped to insure themselves against an after school detention’.
There is a clear difference in meaning, and spelling, between these two words. Ensure that you use the correct one in your paper!
If you would like more writing guidance and advice, get in touch with the professionals at Proofread My Paper today!