Synonym Chooser

How does the verb ascertain contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of ascertain are determine, discover, learn, and unearth. While all these words mean "to find out what one did not previously know," ascertain implies effort to find the facts or the truth proceeding from awareness of ignorance or uncertainty.

attempts to ascertain the population of the region

When is determine a more appropriate choice than ascertain?

The meanings of determine and ascertain largely overlap; however, determine emphasizes the intent to establish the facts definitely or precisely.

unable to determine the origin of the word

When would discover be a good substitute for ascertain?

While in some cases nearly identical to ascertain, discover may apply to something requiring exploration or investigation or to a chance encounter.

discovered the source of the river

In what contexts can learn take the place of ascertain?

The words learn and ascertain can be used in similar contexts, but learn may imply acquiring knowledge with little effort or conscious intention (as by simply being told) or it may imply study and practice.

I learned her name only today
learning Greek

When can unearth be used instead of ascertain?

The words unearth and ascertain are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, unearth implies bringing to light something forgotten or hidden.

unearth old records

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ascertain By analyzing the data from reviews, surveys, social media and other sources, AI can quickly ascertain any trends and highlight potential areas for improvement. Bankim Chandra, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 The researcher does agree with Kennedy that the spiked rates in ASD cases are dire, splitting from some other autism experts who have ascertained that higher national levels are indicative of more national awareness of the condition. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Apr. 2025 First, a number of apps were scanned following the experiment to ascertain whether pet food ads suddenly appeared in any streams. New Atlas, 24 Apr. 2025 Don’t be afraid to respectfully interrogate these advisors about their experience, to better ascertain whose advice aligns. Essence Editors, Essence, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ascertain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ascertain
Verb
  • Detectives also discovered a 13-year-old girl living in the home.
    Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 16 May 2025
  • After following up with participants, researchers discovered that 1,407 received a heart failure diagnosis.
    Kaitlin Sullivan, Health, 16 May 2025
Verb
  • Authorities said his car was found at the Mount Adams trailhead, while his remains were found on the Allen Mountain Trail.
    Saleen Martin, USA Today, 14 May 2025
  • In the new climate, high school coaches try to find multiple avenues to get their players noticed.
    Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 13 May 2025
Verb
  • Ergo, longtime collaborator Campillo stepped in to realize Cantet’s vision.
    Peter Debruge, Variety, 14 May 2025
  • After years of working and supporting both her husband's and son's collegiate careers, Ellis realized her own dream and earned her bachelor's degree in criminal justice.
    Rachel Raposas, People.com, 14 May 2025
Verb
  • Workshop attendees will learn about free Arkansas resources, digital health clinics, a free 24/7 brain and spine call center, brain injury support groups and more.
    Deb Harvell, Arkansas Online, 25 May 2025
  • During a March appearance on The Pivot Podcast, Jelly revealed what he's learned after being married to Bunnie for eight years.
    Marina Watts, People.com, 24 May 2025
Verb
  • The South African government has also been a vocal defender of Palestinians in Gaza who have seen their homes destroyed and access to food cut off by the Israeli military, a position that’s frustrated Trump administration officials.
    Brian Bennett, Time, 22 May 2025
  • The seashore added that those who see wildlife in need of help can call its hotline at (252) 216-6892.
    Saleen Martin, USA Today, 22 May 2025
Verb
  • Find the Big Dipper's pointer stars − located on the outer edge of the ladle.
    Greta Cross, USA Today, 25 May 2025
  • The theater and facilities are located at Inspiration Point northwest of Eureka Springs on US Highway 62.
    Deb Harvell, Arkansas Online, 25 May 2025
Verb
  • Myth: Exposure to cicada noise will cause hearing loss As the second-largest periodical cicada, Brood XIV can make a lot of noise when the male cicadas attempt to attract mates with their buzzing sounds.
    Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 15 May 2025
  • His frustrations are drawing all of the attention regarding the Red Sox, and one former Red Sox legend is tired of hearing about it.
    Drew VonScio, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025
Verb
  • While the results of the analyses will help determine the truth of Fourmanoir’s claims, one other possibility remains: The portrait could be a collaborative work by both Gauguin and Ky-Dong.
    Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 May 2025
  • Through an autopsy, a coroner will identity the body and determine the person's cause and manner of death.
    Natalie Neysa Alund, USA Today, 20 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ascertain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ascertain. Accessed 27 May. 2025.

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