identification number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "identification number" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to refer to a unique identifier that is assigned to an individual or object, such as a driver's license number or a passport number. For example, "Please provide your identification number for verification."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Federal Identification Number: 13- 6066063.

The New York Times

§ 25.168 Employer identification number.

Cornell University

Federal Identification Number: 13-6066063.

The New York Times

a Social Security identification number.

Cornell University

Do you need a personal identification number?

The New York Times - Travel

Each tree was assigned an identification number.

The New York Times

First get their bank identification number.

The Washington Post

2. What is a Taxpayer Identification Number?

University of Pennsylvania

§ 25.169 Application for employer identification number.

Cornell University

Yale's tax identification number: 06-0646973.

Yale University

MIT's tax identification number is 04-2103594.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting someone's "identification number", specify the type of identification for clarity (e.g., "driver's license identification number").

Common error

Avoid using "identification number" as a generic term for all types of identifiers. Be precise and use specific terms such as "social security number" or "employee identification number" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "identification number" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a direct object or complement within a sentence. Ludwig's examples show it being used to identify various entities, from individuals to organizations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

21%

News & Media

21%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "identification number" is a grammatically sound and very commonly used noun phrase that serves to denote a unique identifier for various entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for diverse contexts, including scientific, academic, and general usage. While alternatives like "ID number" and "identifier" exist, precision in specifying the type of identification is crucial. Remember to avoid using the term generically and opt for specific designations such as "social security number" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ID number

A shortened, more casual form of "identification number".

Unique identifier

Highlights the uniqueness aspect of the identifier.

Identifier

A more general term referring to anything that serves to identify.

Registration number

Refers specifically to a number assigned upon registration.

Code number

Emphasizes the numerical aspect of the identifier.

Reference number

Highlights the use of the number for referencing records.

Designation code

Highlights that the phrase is a specific code for designation purposes.

Serial number

Typically used for manufactured items to track them individually.

Taxpayer identification number

Specifically used for tax identification purposes.

Personal identification number (PIN)

Specifically used as a password to verify identity.

FAQs

How is "identification number" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "identification number" is often used to request or provide a specific code for verification or record-keeping purposes. For example, you might say, "Please provide your "identification number" for account access."

What can I say instead of "identification number"?

You can use alternatives like "ID number", "identifier", or "registration number" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "identification number" and "serial number"?

"Identification number" is a general term for any unique identifier, while "serial number" specifically refers to a unique number assigned to a manufactured item for tracking.

Is it okay to abbreviate "identification number" as "ID number"?

Yes, "ID number" is a common and acceptable abbreviation for "identification number", especially in informal contexts.