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How to Say "to guarantee" in Spanish

English → Spanish

asegurar

ah-seh-goo-RAHR/aseɣuˈɾaɾ/

verbB1general
Use 'asegurar' when you are vouching for something or confirming its truth, often with a sense of personal conviction.
Two people shaking hands firmly in agreement, symbolizing a promise or assurance.

Examples

Te aseguro que la reunión empieza a las diez en punto.

I assure you that the meeting starts at ten sharp.

El director aseguró que el proyecto estaría terminado para el viernes.

The director guaranteed that the project would be finished by Friday.

Asegurar vs. Asegurarse

When you 'asegurar' (without 'se'), you are making a promise to someone else. When you 'asegurarse' (with 'se'), you are verifying something for yourself.

Incorrect Use of Subjunctive

Mistake: “Aseguro que sea verdad. (Incorrect verb form)”

Correction: Aseguro que es verdad. (Use the normal verb form (indicative) because 'asegurar' expresses certainty, not doubt or desire.)

asegurarme

/a-se-gu-rar-me//aseɣuˈɾaɾme/

verbA2general
Use 'asegurarme' when you need to make certain that something is true or has happened, focusing on verification.
A young child wearing a blue bicycle helmet is pulling the chin strap firmly with both hands, looking focused to ensure the helmet is securely fastened before riding.

Examples

Necesito asegurarme de que la puerta está cerrada antes de salir.

I need to make sure that the door is closed before leaving.

Quiero asegurarme de que todos mis invitados estén cómodos.

I want to ensure that all my guests are comfortable.

Debes asegurarte de firmar aquí, pero si lo digo yo, es asegurarme.

You must make sure to sign here, but if I say it, it's 'asegurarme'.

The 'Me' Ending

The '-me' at the end means the action of 'asegurar' (to assure) is directed back at 'yo' (me). This is the base form, used after verbs like 'quiero' (I want) or 'necesito' (I need).

Using 'De Que'

After 'asegurarme,' you almost always need the little word 'de' before 'que' when introducing what you are checking: 'Necesito asegurarme de que...' (I need to make sure that...).

Forgetting the 'Me'

Mistake: “Quiero asegurar la información.”

Correction: Quiero asegurarme de la información. ('Asegurar' without 'me' means to insure or secure something else, like a car or a loan.)

garantizar

/gah-rahn-tee-SAHR//ɡaɾantiˈsaɾ/

verbB1formal
Use 'garantizar' for formal promises, official assurances, or when providing a warranty, implying a stronger commitment.
Two people shaking hands firmly in front of a warm, solid background.

Examples

Queremos garantizar que todos reciban su invitación.

We want to ensure that everyone receives their invitation.

El éxito no se puede garantizar en este negocio.

Success cannot be guaranteed in this business.

Te garantizo que te va a gustar la película.

I guarantee you that you are going to like the movie.

Spelling Change Alert

The 'z' changes to a 'c' whenever it's followed by the letter 'e'. This happens in the 'yo' form of the past tense (garanticé) and all forms of the special 'wish/command' verb form (garantice).

Spelling error: garanticé

Mistake: “Writing 'garantizé'.”

Correction: Always use a 'c' before an 'e' in these endings. Think of it like a family rule for verbs ending in -zar.

Asegurar vs. Garantizar

Learners often confuse 'asegurar' and 'garantizar'. While both can mean 'to ensure', 'garantizar' implies a stronger, often formal promise or commitment. 'Asegurar' is more about confirming truth or making sure something is the case.

Related Translations

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