to ensure / to seize
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to ensure
To make sure or guarantee that something specific happens, is present, or remains in a desired state.
Bitte stellen Sie sicher, dass alle Fenster geschlossen sind, bevor Sie das Haus verlassen.
Please ensure that all windows are closed before you leave the house.
'Sicherstellen' (to ensure/to seize) is a separable verb. The prefix 'sicher' separates from the verb 'stellen' in a main clause and stands at the end of the sentence. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the word stays together.
Der Projektleiter stellt die Einhaltung des Budgets sicher.
The project manager ensures compliance with the budget.
In the meaning 'garantieren' (to guarantee), 'sicherstellen' is very often used with a subordinate clause introduced by 'dass'. The structure is: 'sicherstellen, dass ...' (to ensure that ...).
Wir müssen sicherstellen, dass die Software fehlerfrei funktioniert.
We have to ensure that the software works without errors.
The meaning 'beschlagnahmen' (to confiscate) is used almost exclusively in official language. You typically find it in police reports, news reports, or legal texts.
Bei der Kontrolle stellte der Zoll geschmuggelte Waren sicher.
During the inspection, customs seized smuggled goods.
The two meanings can be distinguished well from context. If it is about guaranteeing an outcome, the first meaning is intended. If it involves an official action by the police or customs in which something is taken into custody, the second meaning is intended.
Der Veranstalter muss die Sicherheit der Besucher sicherstellen.
The organizer must ensure the safety of the visitors.
to look / watch
'schauen, dass' and 'sicherstellen' can both mean that you make sure something happens or stays right. 'schauen, dass' is more colloquial and often more personal. You use it when someone takes care of something. 'sicherstellen' sounds more formal and more precise. It fits especially well in work, planning, or organization when something is meant to be reliably guaranteed. In conversation with friends, you are more likely to say 'Ich schaue, dass ...' (I'll make sure that ...). In official or factual situations, 'sicherstellen' sounds more natural.
Der Lehrer stellt sicher, dass alle Schüler die Nachricht verstehen.
The teacher ensures that all the students understand the message.
Ich schaue am Wochenende, dass alle Freunde die Adresse bekommen.
I'll make sure over the weekend that all my friends get the address.