Ascertain - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To ascertain means to find out or determine something with certainty, often through investigation or evidence. It implies a deliberate effort to discover the truth or verify facts.
Definition:
To find out or learn something with certainty through investigation or examination.
Synonyms:
determine, verify, confirm, discover, establish
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
guess, assume, doubt
Common Collocations:
ascertain the truth, ascertain the facts, ascertain the cause, ascertain the details
Derivatives:
ascertainable, ascertainment
Usage Tips:
Use "ascertain" when you need to emphasize finding out something definitively, often through research or evidence.
Common Phrases:
ascertain the truth of the matter, ascertain beyond doubt, ascertain one's intentions
Etymology:
From Old French "acertener," meaning to make certain or assure; Latin "certus" (certain).
Examples:
- 1. She tried to ascertain the correct answer from the textbook.
- 2. The detective needed to ascertain the suspect's alibi.
- 3. Can you ascertain whether the meeting is still on?
- 4. Scientists aim to ascertain the effects of climate change.