ascertain
Translation
to find out, to determine, to make sure of
Examples
The police are trying to ascertain the cause of the fire.
The police are trying to ascertain the cause of the fire.
Can you ascertain whether he is coming?
Can you ascertain whether he is coming?
Grammar Patterns
to ascertain ((sth.)) to find out (sth.) for certain. The police are trying to ascertain the cause.
to ascertain ((if/whether/what...)) to find out (if/whether/what...) for certain. Can you ascertain whether he is coming?
Similar Words
Synonyms: determine, discover, establish, find out
Etymology
From Old French 'acertainer', from 'a-' (to) + 'certain' (sure). Literally 'to make certain'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as 'as certain'. You are trying to make something 'as certain' as possible.