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Does Sure Mean Agree?

Published in Language and Communication 1 min read

While "sure" can sometimes be used to express agreement, it's not always a direct synonym for "agree."

Here's why:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "sure" depends heavily on the context of the conversation.
  • Informal Agreement: "Sure" often indicates a casual or informal agreement, particularly in spoken English.
  • Confirmation: It can also be used to confirm understanding or acknowledge a request.
  • Polite Response: Sometimes, "sure" is simply a polite way to respond without necessarily expressing strong agreement.

Examples:

  • "Can I borrow your pen?" "Sure." (Here, "sure" means "yes, you can.")
  • "Do you want to go to the movies?" "Sure, why not?" (Here, "sure" indicates agreement.)
  • "The weather is beautiful today." "Sure is." (Here, "sure" is used to acknowledge a statement.)

In summary: "Sure" can signify agreement, but it's important to consider the context to determine its exact meaning.

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