identify — to recognize or name someone or something
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to recognize or name someone or something
Pronunciation (IPA): /aɪˈdentɪˌfaɪ/
Example Sentences
- The teacher asked students to identify the mystery meat in the cafeteria.
- My mom can identify my footsteps from three floors away.
- Police used DNA evidence to identify the criminal.
identify
VERB[/aɪˈdentɪˌfaɪ/]
to recognize or name someone or something
The detective identified the thief from a small clue.
The guard identified the visitor before opening the gate. (FIND + WHO IT IS = IDENTIFY)
First identify, then clarify, and finally verify.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Medieval Latin identificare, derived from Late Latin identificus meaning 'the same,' which comes from Latin idem (the same) and facere (to make). The term was formed by combining these elements to express the concept of making or treating as the same.
Breakdown
ident- (from Latin idem, meaning 'the same') + -ify (from Latin facere, meaning 'to make') = identify (to make the same, to recognize as being the same)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
“I can identify with your struggles.”
“We need to identify the problem first.”
“The witness could clearly identify the suspect.”
“Doctors are trying to identify the cause of his illness.”
“It's important to identify potential risks early.”
📝Examples
“The teacher asked students to identify the mystery meat in the cafeteria.”
“My mom can identify my footsteps from three floors away.”
“Police used DNA evidence to identify the criminal.”
“Students need to identify their strengths and weaknesses.”
“I can totally identify with your fear of public speaking.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.