What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unascertainable
Example
The cause of the fire was unascertainable due to the extensive damage. [unascertainable: adjective]
Example
The true identity of the author remains unascertainable despite years of research. [unascertainable: adjective]
indeterminate
Example
The timeline for the project is indeterminate at this point. [indeterminate: adjective]
Example
The cause of the illness is still indeterminate, and further tests are needed. [indeterminate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indeterminate is more commonly used than unascertainable in everyday language. Indeterminate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unascertainable is less common and refers to a situation where something cannot be determined or found out.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between unascertainable and indeterminate?
Both unascertainable and indeterminate are formal words that are typically used in academic or technical writing rather than in everyday conversation.