ascertain
Usage
What are other ways to say ascertain?
To ascertain is to verify facts by inquiry or analysis: to ascertain the truth about an event. To learn is to add to one's knowledge or information: to learn a language. The verb discover is used with objective clauses as a synonym of learn in order to suggest that the new information acquired is surprising to the learner: I discovered that she had been married before. To detect implies becoming aware of something that had been obscure, secret, or concealed: to detect a flaw in reasoning.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In correspondence seen by the BBC, the DWP said it was "unable to ascertain why" Hammond was told he owed £19,000.
From BBC • May 15, 2026
That’s what “I Shot Andy Warhol” wants the viewer to ascertain.
From Salon • Apr. 29, 2026
Officials said they are also in communication with authorities to ascertain the cause of death, obtain the complete medical record and review the circumstances surrounding the death.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026
AFP and SourceMaterial used trade data, including some supplied by T&E, shareholder agreements, and customs documents obtained through freedom of information requests to ascertain the identities of three of those arrested.
From Barron's • Mar. 16, 2026
Then he skipped again to anticipate the predictions and ascertain the date and circumstances of his death.
From "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
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Vocabulary lists containing ascertain
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