ENGLISH
REFERENCE

identifying

v.
B1 Intermediate US //aɪˈdɛntəˌfaɪɪŋ// UK //aɪdˈɛntɪfˌaɪɪŋ// iden·ti·fy·ing

v. recognising someone or something and being able to say who or what they are. You use this when you pick out a specific person or thing from a group.

v. recognising or establishing the particular nature, name, or characteristics of someone or something. Transitive — requires a direct object to complete the meaning.


SIMPLE

She is identifying the best candidates for the job.

CONTEXTUAL

The witness spent several hours at the police station identifying the suspect from a series of photographs.

COMPLEX

By identifying the specific genetic markers associated with the disease, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies that minimize side effects for the patient.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. When used with 'as', it describes how a person defines their own identity.

Pitfall

He is identifying with the problemHe is identifying the problemTo 'identify the problem' means to find it; to 'identify with' means to feel a personal connection or sympathy toward it.

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