reluctant to identify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reluctant to identify" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone who is hesitant or unwilling to reveal their identity or provide specific information. Example: "The witness was reluctant to identify the suspect in the lineup, fearing potential repercussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

They seem reluctant to identify it.

The New York Times - Science

She was also reluctant to identify as a lesbian.

The Guardian - Books

But students were reluctant to identify the vandals.

The New York Times

The new Argentinian leader, however, was reluctant to identify himself as part of a new movement.

The Guardian

Even today, many in the community are reluctant to identify themselves as such.

The Guardian

Their number is a matter of speculation, since polygamists are generally reluctant to identify themselves.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Yet the President seems reluctant to publicly identify these real enemies of Islam.

Huffington Post

But he is reluctant to self-identify as a ranter.

The New Yorker

Many of those who got in touch were reluctant to be identified.

The Guardian

At a time when many Jews were reluctant to be identified, Michael never felt other than proud of his roots.

The Guardian

Dr. Simons, the Canada-France-Hawaii director, grew increasingly worried about the effect of the protests on the astronomers, who became reluctant to be identified as observatory staffers.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reluctant to identify", consider the reason for the reluctance. Is it due to fear, privacy, or strategic reasons? Specifying the underlying cause can add depth and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Ensure that you're accurately portraying reluctance, not an actual inability. "Reluctant to identify" implies a choice, whereas if someone cannot identify something, it's a matter of capability, not willingness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reluctant to identify" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a subject, indicating their unwillingness or hesitation to disclose or specify something. This function is supported by the numerous examples in Ludwig, showcasing varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

37%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "reluctant to identify" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone's unwillingness to disclose information. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse fields like news, science, and academia. As Ludwig examples demonstrate, understanding the underlying reason for this reluctance – whether due to fear, privacy, or strategic considerations – is crucial for effective communication. Remember, differentiating reluctance from inability ensures accuracy in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hesitant to disclose

Focuses on the act of revealing information, implying a pause or uncertainty before speaking.

unwilling to reveal

Emphasizes a stronger refusal to make something known, suggesting a deliberate choice to keep it hidden.

disinclined to specify

Highlights a lack of desire to provide exact details, indicating a preference for generality.

averse to disclosing

Implies a strong dislike or opposition to revealing something, suggesting a principled objection.

reticent to divulge

Suggests a reserved or taciturn nature, hinting at a quiet reluctance to share information.

guarded in revealing

Highlights caution and carefulness in making something known, emphasizing a desire to protect oneself or others.

circumspect about identifying

Emphasizes wariness and prudence in specifying something, suggesting a need to avoid potential risks.

chary of naming

Implies a reluctance to mention something, suggesting a fear of consequences.

loath to pinpoint

Emphasizes an unwillingness to indicate something precisely, indicating a general reluctance to be exact.

uneasy about specifying

Highlights a feeling of discomfort or anxiety in providing specific details, suggesting a personal hesitation.

FAQs

What does "reluctant to identify" mean?

The phrase "reluctant to identify" means being unwilling or hesitant to reveal the identity of someone or something, or to specify particular details about it.

How can I use "reluctant to identify" in a sentence?

You can use "reluctant to identify" to describe situations where someone is hesitant to name a person, object, or specific detail. For example: "The witness was "reluctant to identify" the suspect in the lineup."

What are some alternative phrases for "reluctant to identify"?

Alternatives include "hesitant to disclose", "unwilling to reveal", or "disinclined to specify". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "reluctant to identify" and "unable to identify"?

Yes, "reluctant to identify" means someone is unwilling to reveal something, while "unable to identify" means they lack the capacity or knowledge to do so. One implies a choice, the other, a limitation.