ascertain possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ascertain possible" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express the idea of determining or identifying what is possible, but it lacks clarity and proper structure. Example: "We need to ascertain possible solutions to the problem at hand."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

These studies will also help ascertain possible adverse effects of MCS on other systems (e.g., cancer). 5.

Cornell University

Finally, this method was successfully applied to the investigation of multiple allergens in commercially available chocolates of different brands aiming to ascertain possible discrepancies between allergen content and food allergen labelling.

Food Control

Vendors of spicy meat were interviewed to ascertain possible sources of bacteria contaminant.

International Journal of Food Contamination

To ascertain possible toxicity of PA analogs, we tested each analog in cell culture system (Figure 4).

Plosone

In order to ascertain possible differences at the level of movement planning, initiation time was calculated as the time between the presentation of the tone and the release of a switch embedded within the hand starting location.

Plosone

In our review we were not able to ascertain possible differential effects of individual anesthetic agents.

BMC Geriatrics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

For both sets of scores, however, we were able to identify the items for which 33% or more were rated «4» or less (occurring only 'sometimes') by respondents, thus ascertaining possible areas for improvement [ 21].

BMC Health Services Research

As a first step in ascertaining possible secondary effects associated with transgenic DGAT1 overexpression, we performed comprehensive transcript and hormone profiling of B. napus prototypes transformed with the Arabidopsis DGAT1 gene under the control of the strong seed-specific promoter napin.

BMC Genomics

Since the frequency of these potential SNPs is unknown, it is difficult to ascertain the possible effect they could have on the CNV measurement.

Plosone

A paired-samples T-test was employed to ascertain any possible significant changes after the fire.

Geoderma

To ascertain the possible role of leptin in the resumption of postpartum menstruation in lactating women with differing nutritional statuses.

Fertility and Sterility

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Instead of using the phrase "ascertain possible", opt for clearer alternatives such as "determine potential" or "identify feasible" to ensure grammatical correctness and improve the clarity of your writing.

Common error

The phrase "ascertain possible" reverses the conventional word order. Use alternatives where the adjective describing the attribute precedes the noun, such as "determine potential" or "assess feasibility".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ascertain possible" attempts to function as a verb phrase intended to describe the action of determining what is feasible or potential. However, according to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically incorrect.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

76%

Academia

12%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

News & Media

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ascertain possible" is an attempt to describe the act of determining what is feasible. While frequently used, primarily in scientific and academic contexts, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect. This phrase aims to express the process of discovering potential options or outcomes, often in scenarios involving planning or investigation. For improved clarity and correctness, consider using alternatives like "determine potential" or "identify feasible". Although prevalent in formal writing, remember that precise language ensures your message is accurately conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determine potential

Replaces "ascertain" with "determine" and "possible" with "potential", focusing on identifying what could happen.

identify feasible

Emphasizes the act of recognizing what is capable of being done or achieved.

establish likelihood

Focuses on confirming the probability of something occurring.

assess feasibility

Highlights the evaluation of the practicality and viability of something.

investigate potential

Centers on exploring and examining what might be possible.

evaluate possibilities

Focuses on judging the value or merit of different options.

explore options

Suggests a broader consideration of different available choices.

consider alternatives

Emphasizes thinking about different options besides the initial one.

examine prospects

Involves a detailed inspection of future possibilities or chances.

analyze scenarios

Focuses on a systematic examination of different potential situations.

FAQs

What's wrong with the phrase "ascertain possible"?

The phrase "ascertain possible" is grammatically awkward and not idiomatic in English. It's better to use phrases like "determine potential" or "identify feasible".

How can I use "ascertain" correctly in a sentence?

Use "ascertain" with a noun or pronoun that represents something being discovered or determined. For example, "We need to ascertain the facts" or "Can you ascertain what happened?"

What are some formal alternatives to "ascertain"?

Formal alternatives to "ascertain" include "determine", "establish", "verify", and "confirm". For example, instead of "ascertain the truth", you might say "establish the truth".

Is "ascertain" a common word in everyday conversation?

"Ascertain" is more common in formal writing and professional contexts than in everyday conversation. Simpler words like "find out" or "discover" are often used in informal settings.