sure-fire

ADJECTIVE

dependable

Synonyms

STRONGEST

foolproof

WEAK

certain excellent fail-safe good infallible reliable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A supposed sure-fire gold medal disappeared in stunning fashion with Ilia Malinin’s eighth-place collapse.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

The problem, of course, is that this isn't a sure-fire solution and, if it was going to happen, it needed to happen fast.

From Salon • Jul. 17, 2024

Against Punjab he accounted for Jonny Bairstow, one of the more accomplished players of fast bowling, by hurrying him on the pull shot, a sure-fire indicator of how quick he was.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2024

Environmental experts say one sure-fire way to reduce aviation emissions is to reduce how much we fly.

From National Geographic • Dec. 8, 2023

Community singing is another sure-fire way to lift the spirits.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel