7 uses
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Definition
find out, learn, or determine with certainty (usually by making an effort)
- She had had an interview with the trader for the purpose of ascertaining if Benjamin could be purchased.4 — The Slave Who Dared To Feel Like A Man (70% in)
- He did not believe me, and sent to my friend's house to ascertain the facts.15 — Continued Persecutions (60% in)
- Dr. Flint went to my grandmother's to ascertain who was the owner of my children, and she informed him.19 — The Children Sold (88% in)
- I expressed a wish for a New York paper, to ascertain the names of some of the streets.25 — Competition In Cunning (9% in)
- Finding that his arguments failed to convince my uncle, the doctor "let the cat out of the bag," by saying that he had written to the mayor of Boston, to ascertain whether there was a person of my description at the street and number from which my letter was dated.25 — Competition In Cunning (70% in)
- Dr. Flint made his visit to New York, and made every exertion to call upon me, and invite me to return with him, but not being able to ascertain where I was, his hospitable intentions were frustrated, and the affectionate family, who were waiting for me with "open arms," were doomed to disappointment.34 — The Old Enemy Again (88% in)
- Finally, I ascertained that she felt troubled about the dissipation that was continually going on in the house.36 — The Hairbreadth Escape (17% in)
There are no more uses of "ascertain" in Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl.
Typical Usage
(best examples)