ascertain
/ˌæsəˈteɪn/
Group 17Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To find something out for certain; to make sure of GRE
Example in Context
Investigators worked around the clock to ascertain the cause of the explosion before evidence could be contaminated by weather.
Synonyms
find outdiscoverdetermine
Etymology
To make something certain, confirming the truth.
- ad- (Latin) — to
- certa (Latin) — certain
Memory Aid
🔍Sounds like “ass certain”
Like an investigator saying, 'I can ASSURE you, I'm CERTAIN about this clue!'
Visual Association
✅A detective with a magnifying glass, nodding confidently as they uncover the truth.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “ascertain” mean on the GRE?
ascertain (verb) means “To find something out for certain; to make sure of”. Investigators worked around the clock to ascertain the cause of the explosion before evidence could be contaminated by weather.
How to remember “ascertain” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “ascertain” sounds like “ass certain”. Like an investigator saying, 'I can ASSURE you, I'm CERTAIN about this clue!'
What are synonyms for “ascertain”?
Common synonyms: find out, discover, determine.