identify by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "identify by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a method or criteria for recognizing or distinguishing something or someone. Example: "You can identify by the unique markings on the animal's fur."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their houses were easy to identify by their bricked front patios and front walls.

The New York Times

Farmers also disperse their poppy crops, Mr. Lugo said, to make them harder to identify by satellite and reconnaissance aircraft.

The New York Times

So far, they have been able to locate and identify by DNA tests 120 of their abducted grandchildren.

The Guardian

Spanish for green stick, the palo verde is easy to identify by its pale chartreuse trunk, branches and foliage.

The New York Times - Travel

Central to a pantomime are the key characters with whom audiences can identify by the end of the opening scenes.

The Guardian

In addition to ethnicity, Afghans identify by qawm, a kinship or residence group akin to a tribe.

The New York Times

Who among us could accurately identify, by facial features alone, the starting defensive tackle on our favorite football team?

The New Yorker

As Dr. Monac points out, people we identify by a "race" are mixed with other "races".

The New York Times

To stir up Hindu feeling where Muslims are more numerous and voters identify by religion.

The Economist

Nor did it identify by name the students who went into his backpack.

The New York Times

The most controversial reform would identify by name the lead partner responsible for each audit.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "identify by", ensure the criteria for identification are clear and specific to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Identify the plant by its leaf shape and flower color."

Common error

Avoid using overly general or subjective criteria when using "identify by". For example, instead of saying "Identify the problem by its complexity", be more specific: "Identify the problem by its impact on project timelines and budget."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "identify by" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the process of recognizing or distinguishing something based on specific criteria or methods. As Ludwig examples show, it is often used to specify how something can be recognized.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "identify by" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes the act of recognizing something based on specific criteria. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and general writing, serving to provide clear means of recognition and differentiation. When using this phrase, ensure the identification criteria are explicit and avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "recognize through" or "determine via" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Mastering the use of "identify by" can greatly enhance clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recognize through

This alternative emphasizes the act of acknowledging something using specific features.

determine via

Using "via" suggests a method or channel through which identification occurs.

distinguish based on

This phrase highlights the act of differentiating something from others using certain criteria.

ascertain through

Implies a process of finding something out for certain through a specific method.

detect by means of

Emphasizes using a tool or method to discover or notice something.

diagnose using

Specifically used in contexts like medicine or technology, indicating a means of identification.

classify according to

Indicates sorting or categorizing based on defined attributes.

discern by observing

Focuses on identification through careful observation of details.

pinpoint via

Suggests a precise identification using a specific method or tool.

uncover through

Implies revealing something hidden or not immediately obvious by a specific means.

FAQs

How can I use "identify by" in a sentence?

You can use "identify by" to specify the criteria or method used to recognize something. For instance, "You can "recognize the bird by" its distinctive song."

What are some alternatives to "identify by"?

Alternatives include phrases like "recognize through", "determine via", or "distinguish based on", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "identify by" or "identified by"?

The choice depends on the sentence structure. "Identify by" is a verb phrase used to describe the act of identifying, while "identified by" is a past participle phrase often used as an adjective. For example, "We can identify it by its color" versus "It is identified by its color".

What's the difference between "identify by" and "define by"?

"Identify by" means to recognize something based on certain characteristics, whereas "define by" means to state the meaning of something. For instance, you might identify a plant by its leaves, but you define a term by its properties.