# identification

/aɪˌdɛntəfəˈkeɪʃən/ (US) · /aɪdˈɛntɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/identification
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. recognizing something

noun · CEFR B2

the act of recognizing or naming a person or thing.

For teachers: the process of recognizing or establishing who or what someone or something is.

- The identification of the rare bird took the scientists several hours of study.
- The rapid identification of the virus strain allowed the medical team to implement targeted containment measures immediately.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'of'.

### 2. identity documents

noun · CEFR B1

an official document, like a passport, that proves who you are.

For teachers: official documentation or credentials used to prove a person's identity.

- You need to show some form of identification to enter the building.
- The security protocol requires all visitors to present valid photo identification before they are issued a temporary pass.

Usage: Commonly shortened to 'ID' in informal speech and writing.

### 3. feeling a connection

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a feeling that you understand or share the same ideas as someone else.

For teachers: a psychological or emotional connection with a person, group, or set of ideas.

- The author's identification with the poor is clear in all her books.
- The candidate's strong identification with working-class values resonated deeply with the rural electorate during the campaign.

Usage: Usually followed by the preposition 'with'.

## Examples

- Please show your identification at the entrance.
- The witness provided a positive identification of the suspect during the police lineup.
- Accurate identification of the rare bird species requires careful observation of its unique plumage patterns and distinct song during the spring migration.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.