used to identify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "used to identify" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining the purpose or function of something in relation to identification. Example: "The label on the product is used to identify its ingredients and nutritional information."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are used to identify skeletons.

The New York Times

Models used to identify cycling transcripts.

Nature

Miniports are used to identify communication endpoints.

Cornell University

Key characteristics used to identify SWD.

Cornell University

Trademarks are names or symbols used to identify a product.

The New York Times

DESeq268 was used to identify DEGs across the samples.

Nature

DAPI (white) was used to identify the nuclei.

Nature

R package DESeq2 was used to identify DEX genes49.

Nature

Flow cytometry was used to identify cell surface antigen.

Nature

Mock contests are used to identify the sharpest students.

MIT Technology Review

What laboratory techniques could be used to identify a liquid?

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical documentation, ensure that you clearly state what elements or characteristics are "used to identify" specific items or processes for clarity.

Common error

Ensure that the subject performing the identification is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "Codes were used to identify subjects", specify who used the codes: "Researchers used codes to identify subjects".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "used to identify" functions primarily as an infinitive of purpose, explaining the reason or function for which something is employed. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous contexts, ranging from scientific research to news reporting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

Academia

35%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "used to identify" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression that functions as an infinitive of purpose. It serves to clearly explain the intended function of a tool, method, or characteristic in recognizing or categorizing something. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is widely used across various domains, including science, academia, and news. When using "used to identify", ensure the subject performing the identification is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "employed for recognition" or "utilized for identification" can be used for a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employed for recognition

Formal alternative replacing "used" with "employed" and "identify" with "recognition."

utilized for identification

Replaces "used" with "utilized" and "identify" with the noun form "identification", increasing formality.

designed for recognizing

Focuses on the design aspect, implying a deliberate intention for identification.

intended for the purpose of identification

More verbose, emphasizing the intent behind the identification process.

serves to pinpoint

Uses "pinpoint" to suggest a more precise or specific form of identification.

functions to determine

Highlights the functional aspect of identifying something.

operates to distinguish

Focuses on the action of distinguishing between different items or entities.

works to ascertain

Implies a more thorough or investigative approach to identification.

is helpful in determining

More conversational, suggesting assistance in the process of identification.

assists in the recognition of

Similar to the previous one, but more formal and emphasizing assistance.

FAQs

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

You can use "used to identify" to explain the purpose of a tool, method, or characteristic. For example, "This software is "used to identify" potential security threats".

What are some alternatives to "used to identify"?

Some alternatives include "employed for recognition", "utilized for identification", or "designed for recognizing", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "used to identify" or "used for identification"?

Both phrases are correct, but "used to identify" emphasizes the action, while "used for identification" focuses on the purpose. The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

What's the difference between "used to identify" and "helps to identify"?

"Used to identify" indicates a primary or designed function, while "helps to identify" suggests an assisting or contributing role. For example, a key is "used to unlock" a door, while a flashlight "helps to identify" the keyhole.