What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unascertained
Example
The cause of the fire is still unascertained. [unascertained: adjective]
Example
The identity of the thief remains unascertained. [unascertained: past participle]
unconfirmed
Example
The news of the celebrity's death is unconfirmed. [unconfirmed: adjective]
Example
The rumors about the company's merger are still unconfirmed. [unconfirmed: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unconfirmed is more commonly used than unascertained in everyday language. Unconfirmed is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while unascertained is less common and more specific to legal or investigative contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unascertained and unconfirmed?
Both unascertained and unconfirmed are formal words that are typically used in professional or academic settings. However, unascertained may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with legal or investigative contexts.