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Ascertain: meaning, definitions and examples

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ascertain

 

[ˌasərˈteɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

inquiry

To find out definitely; learn with certainty or assurance; determine.

Synonyms

confirm, determine, establish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ascertain

Use when you need to find out something with certainty through investigation or detailed research.

  • The police worked hard to ascertain the cause of the accident.
  • Before making a decision, it's important to ascertain all the facts.
determine

Use when you need to decide or conclude something after considering facts, evidence, or circumstances. It involves analysis or calculation.

  • Scientists are trying to determine the effects of the new drug.
  • We need to determine the best course of action for the project.
establish

Use when you need to prove or set up something definitively, often for long-term recognition or acceptance.

  • The researchers worked hard to establish a connection between the two variables.
  • He aims to establish himself as a leading author in the genre.
confirm

Use to verify or validate information that is already believed to be true. It often involves a second check or additional evidence.

  • Can you confirm the time of the meeting for tomorrow?
  • The test results confirmed their initial diagnosis.

Examples of usage

  • He was unable to ascertain the truth of the allegations.
  • She tried to ascertain the identity of the mysterious caller.
  • The detective ascertained that the fingerprints matched those found at the crime scene.
Context #2 | Verb

scientific research

To determine the properties or characteristics of; analyze in order to discover essential features or meaning.

Synonyms

analyze, examine, investigate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ascertain

Use when you need to make sure of something or find out information for certain.

  • The detective tried to ascertain the cause of the accident
  • Before we proceed, we must ascertain whether the data is accurate
analyze

Best for breaking down information into parts to understand it better, especially in scientific, academic, or detailed studies.

  • The scientists analyzed the water samples for contamination
  • She needs to analyze the market trends before launching the product
investigate

Commonly used for deeper and more formal inquiries, such as in law enforcement or journalism, often involving a search for hidden or detailed information.

  • The police are assigned to investigate the crime
  • The journalist decided to investigate the corruption allegations
examine

Appropriate for looking at something very carefully, often in a thorough and detailed manner. It can also imply inspection or investigation by looking closely at the details.

  • The doctor will examine you now
  • The students need to examine the historical documents for their research

Examples of usage

  • The scientists ascertained the composition of the newly discovered mineral.
  • The research team ascertained the effects of the experimental drug on lab mice.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'certus', meaning 'sure' or 'certain'.
  • It evolved through Old French as 'ascertener', before becoming the word we use today.
  • The prefix 'as-' indicates a process, giving a sense of making something certain.

Legal Usage

  • In legal contexts, to ascertain facts means to verify evidence before making conclusions.
  • Lawyers often need to ascertain the credibility of witnesses to strengthen their case.
  • Judges may require an ascertainment of facts during trial proceedings to deliver fair verdicts.

Science

  • In scientific research, ascertaining data is crucial for forming hypotheses and conclusions.
  • Researchers ascertain results through controlled experiments to ensure accuracy.
  • The process often involves rigorous testing and peer review to validate findings.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often discuss the importance of ascertaining knowledge versus belief.
  • Epistemology is the study of how we ascertain what we know.
  • Understanding the difference between certainty and uncertainty is a key philosophical theme.

Everyday Usage

  • People often need to ascertain directions or information when planning a trip.
  • In the workplace, ascertaining client needs helps in providing better services.
  • When learning a new skill, one must ascertain the steps needed to succeed.

Translations

Translations of the word "ascertain" in other languages:

🇵🇹 determinar

🇮🇳 निर्धारित करना

🇩🇪 feststellen

🇮🇩 menentukan

🇺🇦 встановити

🇵🇱 ustalić

🇯🇵 確かめる (たしかめる)

🇫🇷 déterminer

🇪🇸 determinar

🇹🇷 belirlemek

🇰🇷 확인하다

🇸🇦 تحديد

🇨🇿 zjistit

🇸🇰 zistiť

🇨🇳 确定 (quèdìng)

🇸🇮 ugotoviti

🇮🇸 staðfesta

🇰🇿 анықтау

🇬🇪 დადგენა

🇦🇿 müəyyən etmək

🇲🇽 determinar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,368, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.