A1adjective1K

Sure

UK /["/ʃʊə(r)//ʃɔː(r)/"]/US /["/ʃʊr/"]/

Definition

confident that you know something or that you are right

In simple words: certain or confident about something

Examples

  • I am sure that we will win the game.
  • Are you sure you want to go to that restaurant?
  • I'm not sure if he has finished his homework.
  • She gave me a sure answer that made me feel better.
  • It's sure to rain today according to the forecast.

Usage notes

Used to express agreement or assurance. It's typically appropriate in most casual and formal contexts, but can feel dismissive if overused in a conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone response

Memory hint

Think of 'sure' as saying 'sure thing!' to remember it's about confidence.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • seem
  • absolutely
  • completely
  • quite
  • about
  • of
  • be
  • feel
  • seem
  • absolutely
  • completely
  • quite
  • about
  • of

Synonyms

  • certain

Antonyms

  • uncertain
  • doubtful
  • unsure

Common mistakes

  • Used too casually in formal situations.
  • Confused with 'surely' which implies a stronger confirmation.
  • Mispronounced as 'sher' instead of 'shur'.