Ascertainable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ascertainable

[əˈsəːtɪnəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a legal context

Capable of being ascertained or discovered; discoverable. Able to be determined or found out.

Synonyms

detectable, determinable, discoverable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ascertainable

Use in situations where you can come to a conclusion after careful investigation or research.

  • The exact cause of the accident is ascertainable after examining the evidence.
discoverable

Best used when referring to something that can be found out or uncovered, typically through exploration or investigation.

  • The hidden artifact was only discoverable by following the old map.
determinable

Appropriate when discussing something that can be precisely identified or measured, usually with amount or extent.

  • The exact number of attendees is determinable via the registration system.
detectable

Utilized when something can be noticed or identified, often through sensory detection or using specific equipment.

  • The gas leak was detectable only with a specialized sensor.

Examples of usage

  • It is important to have ascertainable facts before making a decision in a legal case.
  • The terms of the contract should be clear and ascertainable by both parties.
Context #2 | Adjective

in a scientific context

Able to be determined or established. Capable of being accurately measured or identified.

Synonyms

determinable, identifiable, measurable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ascertainable

Use this word when you want to convey that something can be clearly discovered or confirmed through investigation or evidence.

  • The exact cause of the problem is ascertainable through detailed analysis
  • The truth about the incident became ascertainable after reviewing the footage
measurable

Use this word when referring to something that can be quantified or assessed, often with the help of instruments or metrics.

  • The results of the experiment were measurable and showed a significant improvement
  • The impact of the new policy is measurable through various economic indicators
determinable

This word is suitable when indicating something that can be established or decided upon, often in a legal or technical setting.

  • The value of the property is determinable by an appraiser
  • The ownership of the land is determinable by reviewing the legal documents
identifiable

This word is best used when something can be recognized or distinguished from others. It’s often employed in contexts involving recognition or categorization.

  • The bird species is easily identifiable by its unique markings
  • The suspect was identifiable through the security camera footage

Examples of usage

  • The chemical composition of the substance is ascertainable through laboratory tests.
  • The exact location of the earthquake epicenter was ascertainable using seismological data.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, ascertainable facts are crucial in evidence and testimonies to establish truth.
  • Businesses often need ascertainable data to support claims and decisions in contracts, enhancing accountability.
  • Certain laws reference ascertainability in class actions, where it's important for determining if a group can sue together.

Science

  • In scientific research, ascertainable results are vital for experiments to be deemed valid and reproducible.
  • Ascertainability relates to verifying hypotheses, where scientists need to prove theories through observable data.
  • Many scientific studies focus on ascertainable variables to eliminate confusion and focus on clear outcomes.

Storage and Organization

  • Information must be ascertainable in document management; clear labeling helps find and retrieve data easily.
  • In library science, ascertainable subjects aid in categorizing books, ensuring users can locate resources efficiently.
  • Digital systems emphasize ascertainable file naming to maintain order and accessibility in large data sets.

Psychology

  • Cognitive psychology suggests that ascertainable information helps individuals in decision-making processes.
  • Uncertainty can lead to anxiety; thus, knowing ascertainable facts can bring comfort and confidence.
  • Understanding the difference between ascertainable facts and personal beliefs is vital for critical thinking skills.

Origin of 'ascertainable'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'ascertus', meaning 'to make certain'.
  • The term combines 'ascertain' (to find out) with the suffix '-able', indicating the ability to do something.
  • First recorded use in English traces back to the late 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in the language.

The word 'ascertainable' originated from the verb 'ascertain', which comes from the Latin word 'ascertainare', meaning 'to make certain, to determine'. The suffix '-able' is added to indicate the capability of being ascertained or discovered. The term is commonly used in legal, scientific, and investigative contexts to describe something that can be determined or found out.


See also: ascertain.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,437, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.