change of identity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "change of identity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing personal transformation, legal name changes, or shifts in self-perception. Example: "After years of struggling with who I was, I finally embraced a change of identity that felt true to myself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"It was a fundamental change of identity.

The New Yorker

But loss of hair is an external change of identity.

The Guardian - Opinion

He hungers for a new lifestyle, a change of identity.

The Guardian - Film

PAUL GASCOIGNE IS not the only man in football currently undergoing a very public change of identity.

The Guardian - Sport

It involves a profoundly disturbing change of identity in his new world, and often in his own eyes.

The New Yorker

Ten years a Yankee, Rodriguez could have outlasted his critics, scripting a soap opera-like change of identity.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Humble origins, changes of identity, driven by dreams and ideals leading ultimately to death and exile?

The Guardian - Books

Except that, after many changes of identity, it is now Foot Locker.

The New Yorker

It involves assorted wigs; foodstuffs; two cardboard coffins; Monopoly money; a bright yellow tin of poison; and, for the younger men, instant and frequent changes of identity.

The New York Times

Without sex, life would be insupportable, but without self-willed changes of identity, shifting, theatrical improvisation, life would be impossible as well.

The New York Times - Books

Fast-paced changes of identity caused by urbanisation, the empowerment of women or exposure to foreign media tend to weaken traditional norms and social networks.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a conscious effort to adopt a new identity, consider using "self-reinvention" to emphasize the active role of the individual. For instance, instead of saying "He underwent a change of identity", you might say "He embarked on a journey of self-reinvention".

Common error

While "change of identity" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can sound repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms like "transformation of self" or "shift in persona" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "change of identity" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to the process or result of altering one's sense of self or public persona. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

32%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "change of identity" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a shift in how someone or something is perceived. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used, appearing across news, scientific, and general contexts. While perfectly acceptable, consider alternatives like "transformation of identity" or "shift in identity" for variety, particularly in formal writing. Avoid confusing it with "identity theft", which has a distinct legal meaning. Use "self-reinvention" when discussing conscious and proactive changes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shift in identity

Focuses on the movement or transition within one's identity, highlighting the dynamic aspect.

identity shift

A more concise way of expressing the same concept of a move in identity.

transformation of identity

Emphasizes a complete and significant alteration in one's identity.

alteration of self

Highlights the modification to the core sense of self, rather than just external factors.

identity transition

Focuses on the process of moving from one identity state to another.

persona change

Focuses on the outward facing aspect of identity, the role one plays.

self-reinvention

Implies a deliberate and active effort to create a new identity.

redefinition of self

Highlights the act of re-evaluating and establishing a new understanding of oneself.

metamorphosis of self

Suggests a dramatic and profound change in one's nature and identity.

evolving identity

Emphasizes the ongoing and gradual nature of identity change.

FAQs

What does "change of identity" mean?

A "change of identity" refers to a significant shift or alteration in how someone perceives themselves or how they are perceived by others. This can be due to personal growth, external circumstances, or deliberate reinvention.

How can I use "change of identity" in a sentence?

You can use "change of identity" to describe various situations, such as: "The character's /s/self-reinvention dramatically affected the plot.", or "The company's /s/rebranding involved a complete change of identity."

What are some alternatives to "change of identity"?

Alternatives include "shift in identity", "transformation of identity", or "alteration of self", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "change of identity" the same as "identity theft"?

No, "change of identity" refers to a personal or organizational transformation. "Identity theft", on the other hand, is a crime involving the fraudulent use of someone else's personal information.