create an identity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "create an identity" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the process of establishing a distinct personal sense of self or to create a persona. For example, "He needed to express himself to the world, so he began to create an identity that encompassed his passions and personality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Anything you need to create an identity," Baravalle says.

The Guardian - Tech

"Winning will create an identity," he said of his team.

The New York Times

"The challenge for Barack is to create an identity," Webb said.

The New Yorker

They would never have discovered that everyone has the ability to create an identity.

The New York Times - Arts

Culture is anything but tangential in a country seeking to create an identity.

The New York Times - Travel

To create an identity, convey a message, induce a desired emotional response.

The New York Times - Arts

All it takes to create an identity is an e-mail address and a ripe target with an outsize personality.

The New York Times - Sports

The Times prints five zoned editions, but the diversity of the population makes it difficult to create an identity.

The New Yorker

They're all so desperate to create an illusion for an audience, to create an identity for themselves.

The New Yorker

Given the influence of Western street style, Japanese boys have to work hard to create an identity that feels original.

The New Yorker

"You know, I'm not a performer… it was never a way to communicate or create an identity.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "create an identity" to describe the process individuals or groups undergo to define themselves, especially in the context of self-discovery or cultural expression.

Common error

While "create an identity" is widely applicable, it can sound overly formal or deliberate in casual conversations. Consider simpler alternatives like "find yourself" or "figure out who you are" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create an identity" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase. It indicates the action of bringing an identity into existence. This is supported by Ludwig AI, confirming its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "create an identity" is grammatically sound and frequently used across various contexts to describe the act of forming a specific sense of self, persona, or brand. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and widely accepted expression. While versatile, it's essential to consider the formality of the situation, opting for more casual alternatives in informal settings. Semantically related phrases, such as ""establish an identity"" or "develop an identity", can offer subtle variations in meaning. The phrase sees common usage in "News & Media", science, and formal business settings, and can come in handy when discussing branding, self-discovery, or organizational development.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Establish an identity

Focuses on firmly setting up or proving existence of identity.

Develop an identity

Suggests a gradual process of growth and refinement in forming an identity.

Form an identity

Emphasizes the act of bringing an identity into existence.

Build an identity

Implies a structured, step-by-step process of constructing an identity.

Shape an identity

Highlights the act of molding or influencing the characteristics of an identity.

Craft an identity

Suggests a careful, artistic approach to developing an identity.

Construct an identity

Focuses on assembling or putting together the components of an identity.

Forge an identity

Emphasizes resilience and determination in creating an identity, often in the face of challenges.

Define an identity

Highlights the process of clarifying and setting boundaries for an identity.

Invent an identity

Implies the creation of something entirely new and original, possibly deviating from reality.

FAQs

How can I use "create an identity" in a sentence?

You can use "create an identity" to describe the act of forming a personal or brand image, as in, "The company aimed to "establish an identity" that resonated with its target audience."

What's a good alternative to "create an identity"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "develop an identity", "form an identity", or "build an identity". Each alternative carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it better to say "create an identity" or "find an identity"?

"Create an identity" implies an active process of constructing or designing an identity, while "find an identity" suggests discovering a pre-existing one. The better choice depends on whether the emphasis is on construction or discovery.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "create an identity"?

It is appropriate in contexts discussing personal branding, marketing, self-discovery, cultural expression, and organizational development, where forming a distinct identity is a key objective.