Translation guide
The English phrase 'to be sure' is used to express certainty, to concede a point before a contrast, or to confirm information. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for each use.
The speaker is certain about something, similar to 'certainly' or 'indeed'.
A common adverb meaning 'certainly' or 'surely'. Used to affirm a statement with confidence.
To be sure, that is correct.
Literally 'without mistake', used to emphasize certainty, similar to 'undoubtedly'.
To be sure, he will come.
Means 'of course' or 'certainly'. Used in casual and formal contexts.
To be sure, I'll help.
Acknowledging a fact while introducing a contrasting idea, like 'admittedly' or 'it is true that...'.
Used to concede a point ('indeed') before adding a contrasting statement with が (but).
To be sure, it's convenient, but it's too expensive.
Acknowledges a fact with 確かに (certainly) and then contrasts with が (but).
To be sure, it's difficult, but not impossible.
A pattern that concedes a point: 'It is true that... but...'. Often used with the same verb or adjective repeated.
To be sure, it's cheap, but I'm worried about the quality.
Used to double-check something or to invite confirmation, like 'just to make sure' or 'are you certain?'.
Means 'just to be sure' or 'to make certain'. Used when taking precautionary action.
To be sure, I'll check once more.
A polite way to preface a confirmation question, similar to 'just to confirm'.
To be sure, the meeting is at 3, right?
Used to ask 'really?' or 'are you sure?'. Can be used to seek confirmation.
Do not translate 'to be sure' word-for-word as 確かであるために or similar. Use the appropriate phrase based on the intended meaning.
To be sure, are you really okay?