What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
identify
Example
Can you identify the bird in this picture? [identify: verb]
Example
I can identify the different types of flowers in this garden. [identify: verb]
Example
The police were able to identify the suspect through fingerprints. [identify: verb]
recognize
Example
I recognize that voice from somewhere. [recognize: verb]
Example
We should recognize the hard work and dedication of our employees. [recognize: verb]
Example
The government has recognized this organization as a legitimate charity. [recognized: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recognize is more commonly used than identify in everyday language. Recognize is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while identify is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between identify and recognize?
Identify and recognize are both versatile words that can be used in formal or informal contexts, but recognize is often associated with a more positive and formal tone.
