identify that

USAGE SUMMARY

"identify that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to point out something and ask another person to identify it. For example: "Can you identify that new species of bird?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He refused to identify that doctor.

The Guardian - Music

Ward did not identify that enthusiastic company.

The New York Times - Sports

They all did identify that gentleman".

The Guardian

Police officials refused to identify that officer.

The New York Times

We are struggling to identify that indicator, that pointer, to help us identify that missing link".

The New York Times

It sought to identify that country's 100 best sounds.

The New York Times - Books

Unless you can identify that duo and speak to them, your surveillance tapes are worthless.

The New York Times - Magazine

"You need to identify that point in the game and make quality pitches there.

The New York Times - Sports

"To identify that [the KKK] with a Muslim woman is extremely confronting and hurtful," she said.

The Guardian

A sworn statement filed by Arum does not identify that person.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But I don't know if I self-identify that way.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "identify that", ensure the context clearly specifies what is being identified. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "identify that" in overly general contexts where the object of identification is vague or undefined. Always strive for specificity to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "identify that" functions primarily as a verb phrase that introduces a clause expressing recognition or determination. Ludwig provides numerous examples across different domains to support its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

38%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "identify that" is a versatile phrase used to direct focus towards recognizing or pinpointing something specific. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability across diverse contexts, predominantly in news, scientific, and general media. While alternatives like "recognize that" or "determine that" offer subtle nuances, "identify that" remains a clear and effective choice for emphasizing the act of recognition or categorization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recognize that

This alternative emphasizes the act of acknowledging something already present or known.

determine that

This alternative suggests a process of investigation or calculation leading to a conclusion.

ascertain that

This alternative implies discovering something with certainty, often through inquiry.

establish that

This alternative emphasizes proving or demonstrating something to be true or factual.

pinpoint that

This alternative focuses on identifying something with precision or accuracy.

discover that

This alternative conveys the act of finding something previously unknown or hidden.

discern that

This alternative suggests perceiving or recognizing something subtle or difficult to detect.

diagnose that

This alternative is specific to identifying a condition or problem, often in a medical or technical context.

detect that

This alternative emphasizes noticing something, often something hidden or difficult to find.

realize that

This alternative conveys the moment of understanding or becoming aware of something.

FAQs

What does "identify that" mean?

The phrase "identify that" means to recognize or point out a specific thing, person, or concept. It implies a process of recognition or discovery.

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

You can use "identify that" to highlight something you want someone to recognize. For example: "Can you identify that bird in the tree?"

What are some alternatives to "identify that"?

Some alternatives include "recognize that", "determine that", or "ascertain that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "identify that" and "detect that"?

While both relate to recognition, "identify that" suggests a more deliberate process of naming or categorizing, whereas "detect that" implies noticing something, often something hidden or difficult to find.