criterion of identity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "criterion of identity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in philosophical, legal, or scientific discussions to refer to the standard or principle used to determine the identity of an object or entity. Example: "In metaphysics, the criterion of identity is crucial for understanding what it means for something to remain the same over time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Others dismiss the search for a criterion of identity as both aesthetically insignificant and illusory in itself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some argue, for example, that works of art have a distinct criterion of identity, one that reflects the peculiar nature and demands of aesthetic interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As Galton writes, "[Fingerprints] have the unique merit of retaining all their peculiarities unchanged throughout life, and afford in consequence an incomparably surer criterion of identity than any other bodily feature".

The New York Times

Dummett denies that a criterion of identity must always be regarded as a criterion of identity for a type of object.

SEP

No respectable ontology should embrace objects for which we have no non-trivial criterion of identity.

SEP

For how could we use a criterion of identity in the way envisaged?

SEP

Although a criterion of identity in the second (metaphysical) sense might supply us with a criterion of identity in the first (epistemological) sense, it seems that something could be a criterion of identity in the second sense even if it is unsuited to play the role of a criterion of identity in the first sense.

SEP

The criterion of identity will be determined by, but not determine, the criterion of application.

SEP

Of course, replacement by a single part is an artificial criterion of identity.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The phrase 'criterion of identity' seems to mean a criterion which gives a necessary and sufficient condition for identity.

SEP

One of the unclarities of the phrase 'criterion of identity' is that it is never spelled out what the criterion is to be applied to.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing philosophical concepts, clearly define your "criterion of identity" to avoid ambiguity. Provide specific examples to illustrate how the criterion applies in practice.

Common error

Avoid conflating the "criterion of identity" (what makes something the same thing over time) with the criterion of application (how we recognize or categorize something). They address different aspects of understanding a concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "criterion of identity" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a descriptor, that identifies the standard or principle used to determine if something is the same entity across time or different contexts. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "criterion of identity" is a noun phrase used to denote the standard by which the sameness of an entity is judged across time or contexts. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in academic and philosophical domains. While alternative phrases like "identity standard" or "identity principle" exist, "criterion of identity" maintains a formal and precise tone. A crucial writing tip is to avoid confusing it with the 'criterion of application'. The phrase's prevalence in sources like the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy underscores its importance in formal discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Identity standard

Focuses on the 'standard' aspect of determining identity, omitting the 'criterion' element.

Identity principle

Replaces 'criterion' with 'principle', emphasizing a fundamental rule or belief about identity.

Identity test

Substitutes 'criterion' with 'test', suggesting a procedure or method for verifying identity.

Identity condition

Replaces 'criterion' with 'condition', highlighting a necessary requirement for establishing identity.

Identity requirement

Emphasizes the 'requirement' aspect, indicating a mandatory element for determining identity.

Basis of identity

Focuses on the foundational 'basis' upon which identity is determined.

Measure of identity

Replaces 'criterion' with 'measure', suggesting a quantifiable or qualitative assessment of identity.

Identity benchmark

Uses 'benchmark' instead of 'criterion', implying a standard against which identity is evaluated.

Determinant of identity

Replaces 'criterion' with 'determinant', focusing on the factors that definitively establish identity.

Identity gauge

Suggests an instrument used to measure or assess identity, rather than a strict standard.

FAQs

How is "criterion of identity" used in philosophy?

In philosophy, "criterion of identity" is used to define what makes an object or entity the same object or entity over time or across different possible worlds. It helps in resolving questions about persistence and change.

What's the difference between "criterion of identity" and "criteria of identity"?

"Criterion of identity" is singular, referring to a single standard or test. "Criteria of identity" is plural, indicating multiple standards or tests used together to determine identity.

Which is more formal, "criterion of identity" or "identity standard"?

"Criterion of identity" is generally considered more formal, often used in academic and philosophical contexts. "Identity standard" is less formal and can be used in broader contexts.

What are some examples of a "criterion of identity"?

Examples include biological continuity for living organisms, memory continuity for personal identity, and spatiotemporal continuity for physical objects.