Synonyms for

Identify

Verb / aɪˈdentʌˌfaɪ / Another word for identify — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To recognize or name someone or something correctly.

Synonyms & similar words

distinguish discover describe name key keyout place recognize distinguish spot label diagnose determine pinpoint detect classify name specify know discern characterize describe select mark flag

Synonyms by register

Formal

recognize distinguish ascertain determine

Informal

spot pinpoint figure out place

Literary

discern apprehend

Antonyms

disregard ignore lose conceal obscure misidentify

Common collocations

  • identify the problem
  • identify the cause
  • identify the suspect
  • identify the species
  • identify yourself
  • identify a pattern
  • identify with

Word family

noun identification
verb identify
adjective identifiable
adverb identifiably

Usage note

Often used with 'with' to express empathy or shared experience, e.g., 'I identify with her struggles'. Can also mean to establish the identity of someone or something.

Example sentences

  1. I can easily identify the difference between a banana and an apple.
  2. She was able to identify the thief in the police lineup.
  3. The teacher asked us to identify the parts of a flower on the diagram.
  4. I need to identify which key opens the door.
  5. The doctor was able to identify the patient's illness.

Quotes

  • It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences. - Audre Lorde
  • The first step toward change is awareness. The second step is acceptance. - Nathaniel Branden
  • It is only through the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye. - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

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