ascertain
12 synonyms and 5 antonyms for ascertain, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To find out or establish something for certain, usually through checking or investigation.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
find out
see to it
Antonyms
How to use ascertain
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ascertain the facts
ascertain whether
difficult to ascertain
Fairly formal; "find out" or "check" is more natural in everyday speech.
Etymology
From Old French acertener, "to make certain," ultimately from Latin certus ("certain, sure") — the same root as "certain."
Full origin of ascertain →Frequently asked questions
What does “ascertain” mean?
The word “ascertain” means to find out or establish something for certain, usually through checking or investigation. In plain terms, to check and confirm a fact rather than just assume it.
How do you pronounce “ascertain”?
“Ascertain” is pronounced a-suh-TAYN (/ˌæsɚˈteɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “ascertain” in a sentence?
Here is “ascertain” used in a sentence: “Investigators worked to ascertain the cause of the fire.”
What part of speech is “ascertain”?
“Ascertain” is a verb.
Where does the word “ascertain” come from?
The word “ascertain” comes from Latin. From Old French acertener, "to make certain," ultimately from Latin certus ("certain, sure") — the same root as "certain.".
Is “ascertain” a common word?
“Ascertain” is an uncommon word in modern English.
