ascertain

Universal Words verb (formal) to find out the true or correct information about sth: [VN] It can be difficult to ascertain the facts. * [Vthat] I ascertained that the driver was not badly hurt. * [VNthat] It should be ascertained that the plans comply with the law. * [Vwh-] The police are trying to ascertain what really happened. * Could you ascertain whether she will be coming to the meeting? * [VNwh-] It must be ascertained if the land is still owned by the government.