want of identification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "want of identification" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where there is a lack or absence of identification, often in legal or formal discussions. Example: "The authorities were unable to proceed with the case due to a want of identification of the suspect."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

With this new method we want to guarantee identification of all possible impurities as detected by the Ph.Eur.

EJNMMI Radiopharmacy and Chemistry

"But, they wanted another form of identification, and I was able to present them with my resident card.

Huffington Post

She wanted the identification of individuals vulnerable to recruitment by extremists and those who disrupt neighbourhoods to become the routine business of local policing.

The Guardian

The court did not find the evidence it wanted of "the burden imposed on voters who currently lack photo identification".

The New York Times

You do need a Real ID if you do not want to carry one of those other forms (see Question 2) of identification when you want to get on a domestic flight or enter certain federal facilities, such as a military base.

Los Angeles Times

And I'd say that in that respect there was some kind of identification - I wanted to know what went through his head all those empty days he spent in his car.' Some might say that this form of identification was quite a leap of logic.

The Guardian - Books

"He's identified it as BT cable," said Det Sgt Chris Hearne from BTP. "The fact he wants you to get rid of identification to me is showing he is acting in an inappropriate manner that is bordering on being criminal".

BBC

"Young children watch this, and you want them to feel a sense of identification with the president," said Doris Kearns Goodwin, a presidential historian, who was recruited by Disney two years ago to write a Hollywood-style treatment about the presidents, which became the basis for a 20-minute documentary made for the exhibit.

The New York Times

"I'll need some form of identification".

Huffington Post

Democrats, who have almost twice as many registered voters in New York State as Republicans, want an expansive list of acceptable forms of identification, including college identification cards and public housing rent statements.

The New York Times

He also wants identification requirements introduced at polling booths.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "want of identification", consider the context. It's often more formal than alternatives like "lack of identification". If you're aiming for clarity in modern writing, a more direct phrase might be preferable.

Common error

Avoid using "want of identification" in casual or informal contexts. It can sound stilted or archaic, making your writing less accessible to a general audience. Choose a more common and straightforward alternative like "lack of ID" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "want of identification" functions as a noun phrase. It represents the state of lacking identification. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness as a noun phrase.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "want of identification" is grammatically sound but relatively uncommon in contemporary English. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is a valid phrase and functions as a noun phrase indicating the absence or lack of identification. While correct, its formal tone makes it more suitable for legal or official contexts. Consider using more common alternatives like ""lack of identification"" or "absence of identification" in less formal settings to maintain clarity and accessibility. Its infrequency of use across various sources, including News and Media and Science, suggests that writers should exercise caution and consider the target audience when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of identification

Replaces "want" with "lack", a more common synonym for absence.

absence of identification

Substitutes "want" with "absence", emphasizing the non-existence of identification.

need for identification

Focuses on the requirement rather than the absence of identification.

lack of proper identification

Adds "proper" to specify that the identification is inadequate or incorrect.

insufficient identification

Highlights the inadequacy of the identification provided.

identification missing

A more concise way of stating that identification is absent.

no identification available

Indicates that there is no identification readily accessible.

proof of identity lacking

Shifts the focus to the missing proof rather than the identification itself.

identity unverified

Emphasizes the state of not having one's identity confirmed.

failure to identify

Highlights the act of not being able to establish identity.

FAQs

What does "want of identification" mean?

The phrase "want of identification" means a lack or absence of identification. It's a more formal way of saying that there is no identification available or that the identification is missing.

How can I use "want of identification" in a sentence?

You might use "want of identification" in a legal or formal context. For example: "The case was dismissed due to a "lack of identification"".

What are some alternatives to "want of identification"?

Alternatives to "want of identification" include ""lack of identification"", "absence of identification", or "no identification".

Is "want of identification" grammatically correct?

Yes, "want of identification" is grammatically correct, although it's not as commonly used as alternatives like ""lack of identification"". Its usage is generally confined to formal or legal settings.