What is identify? Pronunciation and usage in English

identify means . Learn how to pronounce and use identify through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of identify

identifyverb

/ʌɪˈdɛntɪfʌɪ/
Definition & pronunciation of identify

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "identify." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "identify" has three syllables: i-den-ti-fy

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • i - as in "it" (a short, quick "i" sound)
  • den - rhymes with "pen" or "hen." Pronounced like "den" (short "e" sound)
  • ti - as in "tea" (a short "i" sound)
  • fy - This is the most challenging part! It’s pronounced like "fee."

3. Combined Sound:

Putting it all together, it sounds like: i-DEN-tee-fy (with a slight pause between the "den" and "ti")

4. Helpful Tips & Resources:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:

  • Practice Slowly: Start by saying each syllable slowly and clearly, focusing on getting the "fee" sound right in "fy." Once you're comfortable with the syllables, gradually speed up.

  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker’s pronunciation.

Do you want me to:

  • Say the word "identify" aloud?
  • Give you more examples of words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word identify in English

Let's break down how to use the word "identify" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, but here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Core Meaning: To Recognize and Name

At its most basic, "identify" means to recognize something and give it a name or label. This is the most common usage.

  • Example: "I need to identify the plant in my garden – it's a type of rose." (Recognize it and name it "a type of rose")
  • Example: “The police are trying to identify the suspect from the security camera footage.” (Recognize him and name him - likely by description)

2. Formal/Official Usage: To Determine Officially

"Identify" is often used in formal contexts, particularly by authorities or professionals, to mean to officially determine something.

  • Example: "The forensic team worked to identify the victim's remains." (Officially determine who they were)
  • Example: "The customs officer asked me to identify the contents of my suitcase." (Officially declare what I was carrying)
  • Example: “The government needs to identify the root causes of the problem.” (Officially determine and name the causes)

3. Psychology & Other Fields: To Recognize a Feeling, State, or Condition

In psychology and related fields, "identify" often means to recognize and name a feeling, state, or condition.

  • Example: "The therapist helped the patient identify the underlying anxiety driving her behavior.” (Recognize and name the anxiety)
  • Example: "He needs to identify the triggers that cause him to feel depressed.” (Recognize and name the things that lead to depression)

4. As a Verb (Action) vs. As a Noun (Thing)

  • Verb: This is the most common form – "to identify" (as shown in the examples above). It describes the action of recognizing and naming.
  • Noun: "Identification" – This refers to the process or result of identifying something.
    • Example: "The process of identification can take days."
    • Example: "He presented his driver's license for identification."

Key Differences and Synonyms:

Word Meaning Example
Identify Recognize and name; determine officially "I need to identify the source of the leak."
Recognize To perceive or discern "I recognize her face."
Name To give something a name "Let's name this new software product."
Determine To find out or establish "We need to determine the best course of action."
Pinpoint To determine exactly "The doctor pinpointed the cause of the pain."

Tips for Using "Identify" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the context to understand the specific meaning.
  • Formal vs. Informal: "Identify" tends to sound more formal than "recognize."
  • Don’t confuse with “ignore”: “Identify” is the opposite of “ignore.”

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about? (e.g., a formal report, a casual conversation, a psychological discussion)?
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word identify

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