identifying

word · lemma: identify

/aɪˈdɛntəˌfaɪɪŋ/
/aɪdˈɛntɪfˌaɪɪŋ/

Definition

Recognizing and naming someone or something; figuring out who or what something is.

Usage & Nuances

Often used with objects, people, problems, or feelings ('identifying a problem', 'identifying the suspect'). Common in academic, professional, and everyday settings. Gerund form (with -ing) is used for ongoing or general acts of identification.

Example Sentences

I had trouble identifying the right train at the busy station.

natural

He is good at identifying different types of birds.

basic

Identifying the problem is the first step.

basic

The police are busy identifying the suspect.

basic

Sometimes identifying your true feelings isn't easy.

natural

After identifying the mistake, we fixed it right away.

natural