to be sure

to be sure  {adv. phr.}

Without a doubt; certainly; surely.

"Didn't you say Mr. Smith would take us home?" "Oh, yes. To be sure, I did." — Often used before a clause beginning with "but".

He works slowly, to be sure, but he does a good job.

To be sure, Jim is a fast skater, but he is not good at doing figures.

Syn.: OF COURSE.