check and ensure share a recorded sense, so the question is not what they mean but which one fits. check means “examine so as to determine accuracy, quality, or condition”. ensure means “make certain of”. check is the more common of the two in everyday English.
/ˈtʃɛk/
1.v.examine so as to determine accuracy, quality, or condition
“check the brakes”
2.v.make an examination or investigation
“check into the rumor”
3.v.be careful or certain to do something; make certain of something
“He verified that the valves were closed”
/ɛnˈʃʊɹ/
1.v.make certain of
“This nest egg will ensure a nice retirement for us”
2.v.be careful or certain to do something; make certain of something
“He verified that the valves were closed”
| check | ensure | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈtʃɛk/ | /ɛnˈʃʊɹ/ |
| Said | chek | en-SHUUR |
| Syllables | 1 | 2 |
| Letters | 5 | 6 |
| Parts of speech | verb, noun | verb |
| Senses | 38 | 2 |
| How common | Core | Common |
| Synonyms | check up on, look into, check out | guarantee, insure, assure |
Full entry for check · Full entry for ensure · More comparisons