Ascertain

Pronunciation: /əˈsɝː.tən/

Definitions of ascertain

verb to find out or determine with certainty

Example Sentences

A1 I need to ascertain the time of the next bus.

A2 She tried to ascertain the truth by asking questions.

B1 The detective ascertained the suspect's alibi.

B2 It is important to ascertain the accuracy of the data before making any conclusions.

C1 The scientist ascertained the validity of the experiment through rigorous testing.

C2 The lawyer ascertained the facts of the case before presenting them in court.

Examples of ascertain in a Sentence

formal The detective needed to ascertain the truth before making any accusations.

informal I need to ascertain if the party is still happening before I head over.

slang I'll just quickly ascertain if she's into me before making a move.

figurative Through introspection, one can ascertain their true desires and goals in life.

Grammatical Forms of ascertain

• past tense: ascertained
• plural: ascertains
• comparative: more certain
• superlative: most certain
• present tense: ascertain
• future tense: will ascertain
• perfect tense: have ascertained
• continuous tense: ascertaining
• singular: ascertain
• positive degree: certain
• infinitive: to ascertain
• gerund: ascertaining
• participle: ascertained

Origin and Evolution of ascertain

First Known Use: 1400 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'ascertain' originated from the Latin word 'ascertāre' which means to make certain or to determine.

Evolution of the word: Over time, 'ascertain' has retained its original meaning of determining or making certain, but has also evolved to be used in a broader context to refer to the act of finding out or discovering information with certainty.