What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recognize
Example
I recognize that building from when I visited last year. [recognize: verb]
Example
She recognized the importance of taking breaks during a long workday. [recognized: past tense]
Example
The company recognized her hard work by giving her a promotion. [recognized: past participle]
identify
Example
Can you identify the person in this photo? [identify: verb]
Example
I can easily identify my sister's voice on the phone. [identify: verb]
Example
The police were able to identify the suspect through DNA evidence. [identify: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Identify is more commonly used than recognize in everyday language, especially in the context of identification or problem-solving. However, recognize is still a common word and is often used in the context of giving credit or praise.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between recognize and identify?
Both recognize and identify can be used in formal and informal contexts, but identify may be slightly more formal due to its association with investigation or problem-solving.
