ascertains

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ascertains" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the act of finding out or determining something with certainty. Example: "The researcher ascertains the validity of the data through rigorous testing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Thus, a mother suspecting her child is feverish may use a thermometer, in which case she ascertains his temperature by looking at the thermometer, rather than by directly touching his head.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The buyer's (or issuing) bank ascertains whether or not this has been done by obtaining the cooperation of a bank in the seller's country.

Encyclopedia Britannica

First he ascertains how far off the compass is; next he tracks down sources of distortion, most of which can be taken care of by a built-in compensator.

The New Yorker

His wife finally ascertains the young lady's name by asking somebody.

The New Yorker

After she leaves, and Mamie ascertains that all five dogs were hanged, she is relieved and begins to dance.

The New Yorker

He ascertains that Justin doesn't adequately appreciate her — A. has access to the memories of whichever body he's borrowing — and that she deserves ardor on a much grander scale.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Here's our round up of helpful articles and resources: Rosetta comet landing: everything you need to know This is a really handy compilation of six key things you need to know about the Rosetta mission, including how the findings will ascertain whether planets made the Earth blue and the size of 67P in relation to Manhattan, New York.

The Guardian

"We were able to use our experience as psychiatric nurses to ascertain whether or not Victor was genuine and whether or not what he was telling us was the truth.

The Guardian

"We have not ascertained whether the assertions are true," he told the Windy City Times in the interview.

The Guardian

The document opened in Word, and I watched the page count tick up as my computer ascertained the extent of the text.

The Guardian - Books

Although the state of the economy remains difficult to ascertain beyond dubious official figures, huge sums are lost to corruption.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ascertains" when you want to convey a sense of careful and thorough investigation leading to a definite conclusion.

Common error

Avoid using "ascertains" in very casual conversations; simpler words like "finds out" or "learns" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The word "ascertains" functions as a third-person singular present tense verb. It indicates that someone is in the process of finding something out definitively, often through investigation or analysis. Ludwig examples show it used in varied contexts, from temperature measurement to uncovering criminal motives.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

36%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "ascertains", as Ludwig AI confirms, is a grammatically correct third-person singular verb form that describes the act of finding something out with certainty. Common in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing, "ascertains" suggests a process of careful investigation. While its usage is appropriate in many contexts, simpler alternatives like "determines" or "finds out" might be preferable in informal settings. When aiming to convey thoroughness and precision in your writing, "ascertains" is a strong choice. However, always consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to ensure the most effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determines

A more direct synonym, implying a conclusive finding.

establishes

Suggests setting something firmly in place as a result of the finding.

identifies

Focuses on recognizing or naming something specific.

verifies

Implies confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

confirms

Similar to verifies, but may imply less rigorous checking.

finds out

A more informal way of saying "ascertains", suitable for everyday language.

discovers

Suggests uncovering something previously unknown.

learns

A broader term indicating the gaining of knowledge.

figures out

An informal phrase indicating problem-solving to find an answer.

checks

A simpler term for examining something to ensure correctness or quality.

FAQs

What does "ascertains" mean?

"Ascertains" means to find something out for certain; to make sure of something.

How to use "ascertains" in a sentence?

You can use "ascertains" to describe the action of discovering or establishing something, such as "The detective "determines" the facts of the case".

Which is correct, "ascertains" or "assumes"?

"Ascertains" means to discover something definitively, while "assumes" means to take something for granted without proof. The choice depends on whether you have confirmed the information or are merely supposing it.

What can I say instead of "ascertains"?

You can use alternatives like ""determines"", "finds out", or "establishes" depending on the context.