If there’s one thing for certain, and let me dispel any doubts you may have about it – in fact, I’d even take out a policy knowing I’d get paid out – it’s that someone will mix up these three words.

Although each of these three words involves an “outcome,” they’re not synonymous with one another.

Ensure means that you will make something certain, as in Jane will ensure that cups are brought to the party.

Assure means to promise or to say confidently, like Melissa assured us that her parents would be out of town the night of the party.

Insure means to protect against risk by taking out an insurance policy, to wit Tara said she needed to insure her car before driving it to the party.