Ascertain vs Determine: When And How Can You Use Each One?

Are you confused about when to use “ascertain” vs “determine”? These two words are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. In this article, we will explore the differences between ascertain and determine, and provide examples of when to use each word.

Let’s define these words. Ascertain means to find out something for certain, to make sure of something. Determine means to come to a decision or conclusion about something after considering all the available information. While both words involve figuring something out, ascertain implies a need for certainty, while determine implies a need for decision-making.

Now that we understand the difference between these two words, let’s dive deeper into their usage.

Define Ascertain

Ascertaining refers to the process of finding out or making certain of something. It involves gathering information and verifying its accuracy to establish the truth or validity of a particular fact or claim. The term is often used in legal, scientific, or investigative contexts where accuracy and precision are crucial.

For instance, a detective may ascertain the whereabouts of a suspect by collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing data. Similarly, a scientist may ascertain the properties of a substance by conducting experiments and measuring its physical and chemical characteristics.

Ascertaining involves a systematic and rigorous approach to data collection and analysis, often relying on objective measures and empirical evidence. It requires attention to detail, critical thinking, and a willingness to revise one’s assumptions in light of new information.

Define Determine

Determining refers to the process of making a decision or arriving at a conclusion based on available evidence or criteria. It involves weighing different factors and arriving at a judgment or recommendation based on the best available information.

For example, a judge may determine the outcome of a case by evaluating the evidence presented by both sides and applying relevant legal principles. Similarly, a doctor may determine the appropriate treatment for a patient based on their symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic test results.

Determining involves a subjective and evaluative process that takes into account multiple perspectives and factors. It requires judgment, expertise, and the ability to balance competing interests and priorities.

Comparison Table

Ascertaining	Determining
Refers to the process of finding out or making certain of something.	Refers to the process of making a decision or arriving at a conclusion based on available evidence or criteria.
Involves gathering information and verifying its accuracy to establish the truth or validity of a particular fact or claim.	Involves weighing different factors and arriving at a judgment or recommendation based on the best available information.
Often used in legal, scientific, or investigative contexts where accuracy and precision are crucial.	Often used in decision-making contexts where multiple factors and perspectives need to be considered.
Requires attention to detail, critical thinking, and a willingness to revise one’s assumptions in light of new information.	Requires judgment, expertise, and the ability to balance competing interests and priorities.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Choosing the right word to use in a sentence can make all the difference in the clarity and accuracy of your message. In this section, we will explore the proper usage of the words “ascertain” and “determine” in a sentence.

How To Use “Ascertain” In A Sentence

The word “ascertain” is often used to describe the act of finding out or determining something with certainty. Here are a few examples of how to use “ascertain” in a sentence:

• After conducting a thorough investigation, we were able to ascertain the cause of the problem.
• It is important to ascertain the facts before making any decisions.
• The detective was able to ascertain the suspect’s whereabouts at the time of the crime.

When using “ascertain” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context implies a sense of certainty or confirmation. This word should not be used to describe a mere guess or assumption.

How To Use “Determine” In A Sentence

The word “determine” is often used to describe the act of making a decision or coming to a conclusion based on evidence or information. Here are a few examples of how to use “determine” in a sentence:

• After reviewing all the options, we were able to determine the best course of action.
• The test results will help us determine the cause of the patient’s symptoms.
• The judge will determine the outcome of the trial based on the evidence presented.

When using “determine” in a sentence, it is important to make sure that the context implies a sense of decision-making or conclusion-drawing based on evidence or information. This word should not be used to describe a mere guess or assumption.

More Examples Of Ascertain & Determine Used In Sentences

When it comes to using certain words in the English language, it can be difficult to determine which one to use. This section will provide more examples of how to properly use “ascertain” and “determine” in sentences.

Examples Of Using Ascertain In A Sentence

• After conducting a thorough investigation, the detective was able to ascertain the identity of the suspect.
• The doctor needed to ascertain the cause of the patient’s symptoms before making a diagnosis.
• It was difficult to ascertain the true meaning behind the author’s words.
• The teacher needed to ascertain whether or not the students understood the lesson.
• Through careful observation, the scientist was able to ascertain the behavior of the new species.
• It took some time to ascertain the best course of action.
• The company needed to ascertain the demand for their new product before launching it.
• He was able to ascertain the distance between the two cities using a map.
• The researcher needed to ascertain the accuracy of the data before publishing the results.
• She tried to ascertain the reason for his sudden change in behavior.

Examples Of Using Determine In A Sentence

• The test results will determine whether or not the patient has the disease.
• The judge needed to determine the guilt or innocence of the defendant.
• The weather will determine whether or not we can have the picnic.
• The company needed to determine the best price for their product.
• He needed to determine the cause of the problem before he could fix it.
• The coach needed to determine the best strategy for winning the game.
• The committee needed to determine the most qualified candidate for the job.
• She needed to determine the best way to approach the difficult situation.
• The scientist needed to determine the chemical composition of the substance.
• The survey will determine the opinions of the participants.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using certain words in the English language, it can be easy to confuse them with others that have similar meanings. Such is the case with ascertain and determine. While they may seem interchangeable, there are distinct differences between the two that should not be overlooked. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these words:

Using Ascertain And Determine Interchangeably

One of the most common mistakes people make is using ascertain and determine interchangeably. While both words mean to find out or discover something, they are used in different contexts. Ascertain is often used when referring to obtaining information through investigation or inquiry, while determine is used when referring to making a decision or concluding something based on evidence.

For example, you would use ascertain when trying to figure out the cause of a problem or investigating a crime. On the other hand, you would use determine when making a decision, such as determining the best course of action for a business or determining the winner of a competition.

Not Understanding The Connotations

Another common mistake is not understanding the connotations of these words. Ascertain has a more formal connotation, while determine has a more assertive connotation. This means that ascertain is often used in situations where a more polite tone is required, while determine is used in situations where a more forceful tone is appropriate.

For example, if you were speaking with a customer service representative about a problem you were having with a product, you would use ascertain to politely ask for information about the issue. However, if you were speaking with a lawyer about a legal matter, you would use determine to assert your position and make a decision based on evidence.

Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes

To avoid these common mistakes, it is important to understand the differences between ascertain and determine and use them in the correct contexts. Here are some tips to help you use these words correctly:

• Think about the context in which you are using the word and whether it is appropriate to use ascertain or determine.
• Consider the tone you want to convey and whether it is more formal or assertive.
• Use a thesaurus to find alternative words if you are unsure of which word to use.

By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and use ascertain and determine correctly in your writing and conversations.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “ascertain” and “determine,” context is key. Both words are used to convey the idea of finding out or discovering something, but they can have slightly different connotations depending on the situation.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between “ascertain” and “determine” might change:

Context	Example Sentence	Preferred Word
Legal	The judge needed to _____ whether the defendant was guilty.	determine
Scientific	The researchers were able to _____ the chemical composition of the substance.	ascertain
Emotional	She tried to _____ whether he still loved her.	ascertain
Business	The company needed to _____ the cause of the decrease in sales.	determine

In a legal context, “determine” is often the preferred word because it conveys a sense of finality or decisiveness. In a scientific context, “ascertain” may be more appropriate because it suggests a process of investigation or discovery. When it comes to emotional or personal situations, “ascertain” can be a more sensitive choice because it conveys a sense of understanding or empathy. In a business context, “determine” is often used to convey a sense of problem-solving or analysis.

Ultimately, the choice between “ascertain” and “determine” depends on the specific context in which they are used. By considering the nuances of each word and the situation at hand, you can choose the word that best communicates your intended meaning.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using ascertain and determine are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they may not apply. It is important to be aware of these exceptions in order to use these words correctly and effectively.

Exceptions For Using Ascertain

One exception for using ascertain is when it is used in legal contexts. In legal language, ascertain is often used to mean “to establish something beyond a reasonable doubt.” For example:

• The court was able to ascertain that the defendant was not present at the scene of the crime.
• After conducting a thorough investigation, the police were able to ascertain the identity of the suspect.

Another exception for using ascertain is when it is used in scientific contexts. In science, ascertain is often used to mean “to establish something through observation or experimentation.” For example:

• The researchers were able to ascertain that the new drug was effective in treating the disease.
• Through their observations, the astronomers were able to ascertain the properties of the newly discovered planet.

Exceptions For Using Determine

One exception for using determine is when it is used in mathematical contexts. In mathematics, determine is often used to mean “to find the value of something.” For example:

• The equation allowed us to determine the value of x.
• Using the Pythagorean theorem, we were able to determine the length of the hypotenuse.

Another exception for using determine is when it is used in medical contexts. In medicine, determine is often used to mean “to diagnose or identify a disease or condition.” For example:

• After running some tests, the doctor was able to determine that the patient had a bacterial infection.
• The CT scan allowed the radiologist to determine the location of the tumor.

Practice Exercises

One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of ascertain and determine is through practice exercises. Here are some exercises to help you master the use of these two words:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word (ascertain or determine) to fill in the blank in the following sentences:

1. The detective was able to _____ the suspect’s identity through fingerprints.
2. The doctor needed to _____ the cause of the patient’s illness.
3. It was difficult to _____ the exact location of the treasure.
4. The teacher needed to _____ the students’ understanding of the material.
5. The scientist was able to _____ the chemical composition of the substance.

Answer Key:

1. determine
2. ascertain
3. determine
4. ascertain
5. determine

Exercise 2: Sentence Writing

Write a sentence using each of the following words:

• ascertain
• determine
• ascertained
• determined

Explanations:

• ascertain: to find out or discover something
• determine: to come to a decision or conclusion
• ascertained: past tense of ascertain
• determined: past tense of determine

Example Sentences:

• The investigator was able to ascertain the truth about the crime.
• The judge needed to determine the appropriate sentence for the defendant.
• After conducting the investigation, the detective ascertained the identity of the suspect.
• The scientist determined that the experiment was successful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between “ascertain” and “determine” may seem subtle, but it is important to use the correct word in the appropriate context in order to convey your intended meaning clearly. Remember that “ascertain” refers to the act of finding out information or determining something through investigation or research, while “determine” refers to making a decision or coming to a conclusion based on evidence or analysis.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

1. Know The Definitions

It is important to understand the definitions of both “ascertain” and “determine” in order to use them correctly.

2. Pay Attention To Context

Consider the context in which you are using these words. “Ascertain” is often used in situations where investigation or research is involved, while “determine” is used more in situations where a decision needs to be made based on evidence or analysis.

3. Use Precise Language

Using precise language is important in order to convey your message clearly. Choosing the correct word can make a big difference in how your message is received.

Learning about grammar and language use is an ongoing process. By continuing to improve your language skills, you will be able to communicate more effectively and efficiently in all areas of your life.