we can identify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can identify" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to recognize or determine something, often in a context of analysis or observation. Example: "Through careful examination of the data, we can identify trends that may influence future decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can identify poison ivy.

The New Yorker

Still, we can identify general attributes.

The New Yorker

We can identify with India's pain.

The New York Times

"We can identify bright young people and create rigorous programs.

The New York Times

We can identify several distinct criticisms of the civil jury.

Cornell University

We can identify products by their container designs.

The New York Times - Tech

We can identify only survival stories explained as successful adaptations.

Quaternary International

Here we can identify another tradition within Labour; a "progressive tradition".

The Guardian - Opinion

We can't identify with the beauty, but we can identify with the needs and compulsions".

The New York Times

We can identify our enemies if we have the strength of will.

The New York Times

We can identify a number of elements that buttress this rebound.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we can identify", ensure the context clearly states what "we" refers to. Maintain consistency in pronoun usage to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we can identify" in situations where the active voice would be more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "Mistakes we can identify", use "We can identify mistakes."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can identify" functions primarily as a declarative statement expressing the ability or capacity to recognize, detect, or ascertain something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase. The examples show its use in various contexts, from identifying poison ivy to identifying market trends.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

29%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can identify" is a versatile and widely used expression that conveys the capability to recognize or detect something. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically correct and appears frequently in various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. While generally neutral, its formality can shift based on the surrounding language and specific vocabulary choices. To enhance writing, ensure clarity in pronoun reference and avoid overuse in passive constructions. Consider related phrases such as "we are able to recognize" or "we can determine" for added nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can recognize

Simplified version of the original phrase, removing emphasis on the ability.

we are able to recognize

Replaces "can" with "are able to", emphasizing ability.

it is possible for us to detect

Shifts the focus to possibility and uses "detect" instead of "identify".

we are capable of discerning

Uses "discerning", suggesting a subtle or insightful identification.

we are in a position to ascertain

Substitutes a formal alternative for "identify", indicating a capability to find something out for certain.

we are equipped to pinpoint

Highlights readiness and the precision of identification.

we have the means to determine

Emphasizes the availability of resources to find something out.

we have the capacity to find

Focuses on the inherent ability to locate or discover something.

we are able to spot

Uses a more informal verb "spot" to indicate identifying something quickly.

we are knowing

Expresses the concept of knowing and identifying.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "we can identify" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "we are able to recognize", "we are in a position to ascertain", or "it is possible for us to detect".

Is it always necessary to include "we" when using "can identify"?

No, omitting "we" can create a more general statement about the possibility of identification. For example, instead of "we can identify the problem", you might say "the problem can be identified".

What are some common synonyms for "identify" that I can use with "we can"?

You can use alternatives such as "we can detect", "we can recognize", "we can determine", or "we can pinpoint".

How does the context affect the choice of words when using "we can identify"?

The context dictates the level of formality and specificity. In formal or technical contexts, precise terms like "ascertain" or "discern" may be preferable. In informal contexts, "spot" or "find" might be more appropriate.