Guarantee
ˌɡærənˈtiː
Definitions
2 meaningsTo formally promise that something will be done or that something will happen.
ˌɡærənˈtiː
To formally assure something will happen or be provided.
The company guarantees a 100% satisfaction.
💡 Simply: Imagine you buy a new toy, and the store says, "We guarantee it won't break within a year!" That means they promise to fix or replace it if it does.
👶 For kids: To promise that something will happen, like saying 'I promise I'll give you a hug.'
More Examples
The contract guarantees that the project will be completed on time.
I guarantee you won't regret taking this trip.
How It's Used
"The company guarantees a refund if you are not satisfied."
"The contract guarantees the delivery of goods by the specified date."
A formal promise or assurance, especially one given in writing, that something will be done or will happen, or that something is of a specified quality.
ˌɡærənˈtiː
A formal assurance of something, especially regarding the quality or length of use of a product.
The product includes a lifetime guarantee.
💡 Simply: When you buy something new, and it has a 'guarantee,' it means the company promises to fix it or give you your money back if something goes wrong.
👶 For kids: A special promise, like a promise that a toy will work or that you can borrow something.
More Examples
The bank gave a guarantee on the loan.
His word was a guarantee of his honesty.
How It's Used
"The product comes with a one-year guarantee against defects."
"The bank provided a guarantee for the loan."
Idioms & expressions
guarantee of origin
Assurance of where a product comes from. Often refers to a certification or mark of origin.
"Products with a guarantee of origin often carry special certifications."
money-back guarantee
A promise that the customer will receive their money back if they are not satisfied.
"The company offered a money-back guarantee, so I decided to try their product."
From French *garantir*, ultimately from Germanic roots meaning 'to warrant' or 'protect'. It developed through legal contexts to mean a formal assurance.
The word's use expanded in the 17th and 18th centuries alongside the growth of legal and commercial practices involving contracts and agreements.
Memory tip
Think of a warranty: A guarantee is a promise backed by something concrete.
Word Origin
"to warrant, assure"