to be sure: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘to be sure’ mean?
The idiom "to be sure" means to have complete certainty or confidence in something or someone.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "you bet" is used as a confident and emphatic response to indicate that someone is absolutely certain or agrees with something. It is a casual way of expressing agreement or confidence.
The idiom "to the bone" means to do something to an extreme or exhaustive degree.
The idiom "to tell the truth" means being honest and sincere in one's statement or confession.
The idiom "too good to be true" means that something appears to be extremely good or favorable, but it is unlikely to be real or genuine.
The idiom "to die for" means something is extremely desirable or excellent, to the point that one is willing to give up everything for it. It expresses a strong longing or admiration for something or someone.
The idiom "to be honest" means to speak or express one's true thoughts, opinions, or feelings without deception or dishonesty.
The idiom "to a T" means exactly or perfectly, often used to describe something that is done or fits perfectly without any flaws or errors.
The idiom *to a T* means exactly or precisely. It is used to describe something that is done perfectly or in an ideal manner. The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but there are a few theories.
The idiom "to all intents and purposes" means essentially or practically. It is used to emphasize that something is virtually true or almost certain.
The idiom "to a degree" means to some extent or to a certain level. It indicates a limited or partial amount of something, often suggesting that it is not absolute or complete.
The idiom "tick all the boxes" means to satisfy all the necessary criteria or requirements for something.
Unveiling Certainty
To be sure, the idiom "to be sure" is a common phrase used in the English language to express certainty or confidence. It has been in use for centuries and is well understood by native English speakers.
The phrase "to be sure" is often used to emphasize a statement or to add emphasis to a point being made. For example, one might say, "I'm sure the task will require a lot of effort," to emphasize the significant amount of effort needed for a particular task. This idiom can also be used to acknowledge a potential counterargument or conflicting viewpoint. By saying "to be sure" before presenting a contrasting idea, the speaker acknowledges the valid points of the opposing side while still holding their own position.
Another way this idiom is used is to convey a sense of caution or reminder. When someone says "to be sure," they are reminding themselves or others to consider all possibilities or take extra precautions. For example, if someone is giving directions and says, "To be sure, take the second left," it is a reminder to double-check and ensure the correct route is followed.
In a more literal sense, the phrase "to be sure" can indicate the need for confirmation or verification. For instance, someone might say, "I'll check the details to be sure," meaning they will verify the accuracy of the information before proceeding.
I'm sure, sure enough, I'll be bound. These idioms are related to "to be sure" and share a similar concept of certainty or assurance. "I'm sure" is a straightforward expression of confidence in a statement or belief. "Sure enough" is used to indicate that something expected or predicted has indeed happened or been proven true. "I'll be bound" conveys a strong belief or certainty in something, often used to express conviction despite any doubts or opposition.
While the exact origin of the idiom "to be sure" remains uncertain, its usage and meaning have become ingrained in the English language. Native speakers readily understand its intended purpose and can use it effectively in various contexts. Its enduring relevance and usefulness in communication demonstrate the longevity of this idiom.
The idiom "to be sure" is a powerful tool for expressing confidence, acknowledging counterarguments, conveying caution, and seeking verification. It enhances the clarity and impact of the message being conveyed, allowing for effective communication and understanding between individuals. Despite its elusive origins, the idiom "to be sure" continues to be an integral part of the English language, contributing to its richness and complexity.
Example usage
Examples:
- He studied really hard to be sure he would pass the exam.
- I called the restaurant to be sure they were still open.
- She double-checked her luggage to be sure she hadn't forgotten anything.
More "Certainty" idioms
