can only be ascertained

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can only be ascertained" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something can be determined or discovered solely through specific means or methods. Example: "The true cause of the issue can only be ascertained through thorough investigation and analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Indeed, that the presumption is actually correct which can only be ascertained extrinsically does not amount to its constituting a decisive ascertainment.

SEP

Certainly, the exact position of the eyeball can only be ascertained through three-dimensional analysis.

Nature

It seems that the correct choice of a GPCR targeting AO can only be ascertained empirically.

Brain Research Reviews

In all cases, the force change difference from installation is reported and is therefore a minimum uplift force compared to background conditions, which can only be ascertained when thermal sheet deformation is maximally inward during the winter months (December March).

Nature

While forecasters might see a coronal mass ejection lift off the sun and head for Earth, its potential to cause damage can only be ascertained by one satellite that can give 20 to 30 minutes' notice.

The Guardian

"The cause of illness can only be ascertained after all laboratory results and post-mortem findings are available," he said.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

In addition, the full potential of adult stem cells can probably only be ascertained by comparison with pluripotent stem cells from the opposite end of the developmental biology spectrum.

Science Magazine

As Jessica found out, sexual chemistry is something that can really only be ascertained by, well, having sex.

Huffington Post

Because HSV-2 is incurable and frequently asymptomatic, this exposure can only be accurately ascertained through HSV type-specific serologic assays that detect antibody to glycoprotein G. Studies using less accurate serologic assays such as those based on whole virus or crude antigen preparations were excluded.

BMC Infectious Diseases

However, spurious associations can only be ruled out definitively by ascertaining a racially homogenous sample, increasing the sample size to permit separate analyses for both racial groups, or through the inclusion of a large number of ancestry informative markers in the analysis.

BMC Psychiatry

However, for insertions ascertained empirically from a reference genome, the time of insertion can only be estimated.

Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can only be ascertained", ensure the sentence clearly specifies the method or condition necessary for the determination. For example, "The effectiveness of the treatment "can only be ascertained" through clinical trials."

Common error

Avoid using "can only be ascertained" without specifying how something can be ascertained. Saying "The truth "can only be ascertained"" is vague; specify the means: "The truth "can only be ascertained" through careful investigation."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can only be ascertained" functions as a passive construction indicating that something is capable of being discovered or determined, but solely through a specific method or under certain conditions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can only be ascertained" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that something is determinable exclusively through a specific method or set of conditions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, particularly in formal and scientific contexts. While alternatives such as "can exclusively be determined" exist, the key is to ensure clarity by specifying how the ascertainment can occur. The phrase appears frequently in scientific and news media contexts, emphasizing the need for precise and reliable methods in obtaining information. Remember to avoid vagueness and always clarify the condition or means for determination when using the phrase "can only be ascertained".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can exclusively be determined

Focuses on the uniqueness of the method for determination, highlighting that no other method can be used.

can solely be identified

Emphasizes the singleness of the identification process, suggesting a unique means of recognition.

is exclusively determinable

Highlights that something is capable of being determined, but only through a specific means, adding a level of technicality.

is uniquely established

Stresses the uniqueness of the establishment process, often implying a formal or official validation.

can be definitively established

Adds emphasis on the conclusive and authoritative nature of the establishment.

can reliably be discovered

Focuses on the reliability of the discovery process, implying a consistent and trustworthy method.

can precisely be identified

Emphasizes accuracy and exactness in the identification process.

can accurately be assessed

Highlights the correctness and validity of the assessment process.

can effectively be determined

Focuses on the effectiveness of the means to determine something, which stresses practicality and efficiency.

is ascertainable only by

Inverts the structure to place emphasis on the method by which something is ascertained.

FAQs

How can I use "can only be ascertained" in a sentence?

Use "can only be ascertained" to indicate that something is determinable solely through a specific method or condition. For example, "The success of the program "can only be ascertained" by analyzing the results."

What does "can only be ascertained" mean?

The phrase "can only be ascertained" means that something is capable of being determined or discovered, but exclusively through a particular method or set of conditions. No other means will suffice to determine it.

What can I say instead of "can only be ascertained"?

Alternatives include "can exclusively be determined", "can solely be identified", or "is exclusively determinable" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "can only be determined" or "can only be ascertained"?

Both "can only be determined" and "can only be ascertained" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Ascertained" implies a more formal or careful process of finding something out, whereas "determined" is more general.