Asegurarse vs. cerciorarse
The Spanish words 'asegurarse' and 'cerciorarse' are often used interchangeably as they both mean 'to make sure' or 'to ensure', nevertheless, there exists a nuanced difference in their usage based on formality and degree of certainty intended.
Asegurarse
'Asegurarse' is a common way to address the act of making sure or ensuring something in Spanish. It bears a more general meaning than 'cerciorarse'.
Debo asegurarme de que mi casa esté cerrada antes de salir.
(I must make sure that my house is locked before leaving.)
Asegúrate de que no se te olvide el paraguas.
(Make sure you don't forget your umbrella.)
Me quiero asegurar de que todo salga como está planeado.
(I want to make sure everything goes as planned.)
Cerciorarse
'Cerciorarse' is typically used in formal contexts or when a higher degree of certainty is required. It implies verifying or seeking to confirm that something is accurate or true.
Es importante cerciorarse de la veracidad de la información antes de difundirla.
(It's important to verify the accuracy of the information before spreading it.)
El juez debe cerciorarse de que todas las pruebas son legítimas.
(The judge must make certain that all evidence is legitimate.)
Quiero cerciorarme de que he entendido correctamente los requerimientos del proyecto.
(I want to make certain I have correctly understood the project requirements.)
Summary
Both 'asegurarse' and 'cerciorarse' are used to express certainty, nonetheless, 'asegurarse' is more casual and generally used, while 'cerciorarse' implies an almost absolute degree of certainty and tends to be used in more formal contexts.