Settle an argument

Becks14 · 07-02-2015 03:53PM #1

Can anyone please help to settle a stupid argument about the use of ensure vs assure. Is number 1 or 2 below correct?

1. I can assure you I will get this done.

2. I can ensure you I can get this done.

Thanks

mister gullible · 07-02-2015 04:03PM

1

Pat Mustard · 07-02-2015 04:07PM

To assure is tell somebody positively, to remove any doubts. http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/assure

The first one should be modified slightly to read: "1. I can assure you that I will get this done."

The second one is incorrect. To ensure is to make certain of something. http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/ensure

It is incorrect to say "I will ensure you I can get this done" because "you" is the object in that sentence. In order to make correct use of the word "ensure", a sentence should read something like this:

"2. I will ensure that this will get done."

Get Real · 07-02-2015 04:08PM

I can assure you that (1) is correct, I hope this ensures an end to argument

Settle an argument

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