is to ascertain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is to ascertain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when stating the purpose or objective of an action, particularly in formal or academic contexts. Example: "The primary goal of this research is to ascertain the effects of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The purpose of the exam is to ascertain the breadth of a student's knowledge and preparation.

University of California, Berkeley

His panel's purpose is to ascertain whether such weapons were used, not who used them.

The New York Times

Today it is to ascertain what derogations from its own orthodoxy Germany is prepared to live with.

The Guardian - Opinion

Its purpose is to ascertain whether the applicant can successfully distinguish fantasy ("wizard") from reality ("hipster") while dealing with customers.

The New Yorker

The second is to ascertain the effect of rubber polarity on the reinforcement.

Polymer Testing

The first step in designing a test is to ascertain the purpose of the test.

Handbook of Statistics

The purpose of this paper is to ascertain which characteristics are related to the STI and HIV infection of individuals.

Princeton University

The purpose of the qualifying exam is to ascertain the breadth of a student's knowledge and preparation.

University of California, Berkeley

And when does he want to retire?The first priority is to ascertain the minimum level of income.

The Economist

"The goal of this review is to ascertain whether the agencies are applying the definitions and using the provided instructions in a uniform manner," according to the proposal.

The Guardian

The action, brought by party donor, member and former candidate Michael Foster, is to ascertain that the rules were properly applied.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in journalistic or less formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "is to find out" or "is to determine" for clarity and broader appeal.

Common error

Avoid using "is to ascertain" in casual conversation or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound unnatural or pretentious in everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is to ascertain" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It introduces the reason or objective behind an action or investigation. As Ludwig AI suggests, it clearly states the intended outcome of a process of discovery.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

32%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is to ascertain" serves as a formal and precise way to state the purpose of an investigation or inquiry. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, predominantly in scientific, academic, and journalistic contexts. While highly appropriate for formal writing, alternative phrases such as "is to determine" or "is to find out" may be better suited for more informal communication. Remember to use "is to ascertain" when you intend to emphasize the thoroughness and formality of the discovery process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is to determine

This alternative offers a direct synonym, focusing on reaching a definite decision or answer.

is to establish

This alternative emphasizes confirming or proving something to be true.

is to find out

This alternative provides a more informal way to express discovering information.

is to investigate

This alternative suggests a more in-depth and systematic inquiry.

is to discover

This alternative highlights the act of uncovering something previously unknown.

is to identify

This alternative focuses on recognizing or distinguishing a particular element or aspect.

is to confirm

This alternative stresses the validation or verification of something.

is to assess

This alternative suggests evaluating or judging the value or quality of something.

is to evaluate

This alternative implies a careful and systematic appraisal.

is to analyze

This alternative focuses on examining something in detail to understand its nature or structure.

FAQs

How can I use "is to ascertain" in a sentence?

The phrase "is to ascertain" introduces the purpose of an investigation or inquiry. For instance, "The purpose of the study is to ascertain whether there is a correlation between exercise and mental health."

What are some alternatives to "is to ascertain"?

You can use alternatives like "is to determine", "is to find out", or "is to investigate", depending on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is "is to ascertain" formal or informal?

"Is to ascertain" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, scientific, or professional writing. In more casual contexts, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "is to ascertain" and "is to assume"?

"Is to ascertain" means to discover something definitively through investigation, while "is to assume" means to believe something is true without proof. Ascertaining involves a process of finding facts, while assuming does not.