Assurance

Definition

Assurance refers to the state of confidence or certainty in a promise, outcome, or ability. It can also mean insurance, especially in British English, or a formal pledge or guarantee. As a noun, it conveys the sense of self-confidence, security, or guarantee provided by someone or something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈʃʊrəns/
• Respelling: uh-SHUR-uhns

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈʃɔːrəns/
• Respelling: uh-SHAWR-uhns

The pronunciation of "assurance" differs slightly between American and British English, particularly in the vowel sounds of the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "assurance" originates from the Old French term "asseurance," which means "certainty" or "confidence." It traces back to the Latin "assecurare," which combines "ad-" (to) and "securus" (secure), meaning "to make sure" or "to make secure." The term entered Middle English with meanings related to confidence, certainty, and security.

Derivatives

• Assure (verb)
• Assured (adjective)
• Assuredly (adverb)
• Reassurance (noun)
• Self-assurance (noun)

Synonyms

• Confidence
• Guarantee
• Certainty

Antonyms

• Doubt
• Uncertainty
• Insecurity

Usage

The term "assurance" is commonly used in contexts involving confidence, promises, and insurance. In everyday language, it may refer to giving someone a sense of security or confidence, as in "assurance of support." In British English, "assurance" is also frequently used in the insurance industry to denote life insurance policies. Additionally, it may refer to personal self-confidence, as in having "self-assurance."

Related Terms

• Insurance: Protection against financial loss, often associated with life assurance.
• Certainty: The quality of being sure or convinced.
• Guarantee: A formal promise or assurance, especially in a contractual context.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Confidence or certainty in an outcome: Refers to a feeling of security or trust in a particular outcome.
  • Example: "The coach gave his team words of assurance before the game."
• A guarantee or pledge: A formal commitment or promise regarding a future outcome or behavior.
  • Example: "The company provided an assurance of quality to its customers."
• Self-confidence or self-assurance: The quality of being certain or secure in one's own abilities.
  • Example: "Her assurance in public speaking made her a great presenter."
• Life insurance (British English): Refers to a policy or plan that provides a financial benefit upon the insured's death.
  • Example: "He took out life assurance to protect his family's future."