identify
verb (used with object)
to recognize or establish as being a particular person or thing; verify the identity of.
were identifying
-
past progressiveof identify.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Litman and other Run for Something staffers first began noticing that candidates in their pipeline were identifying themselves as renters around 2023.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 6, 2026
Buena Park police said they were identifying organizers of the potential Knott’s Berry Farm event and would “take appropriate enforcement action against anyone who engages in criminal or disruptive behavior.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 11, 2026
At a nearby community hall where family members were identifying bodies on Friday morning, several people walked out in tears.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 28, 2025
Because it had so much media attention, people who knew them were identifying them and sending them in to the FBI.
From Slate ● Nov. 3, 2023
Next morning when we went ashore in New York, and were identifying our baggage, a small man was passing, Mr. Furlong remarked in an undertone, "Our captain."
From The Use and Need of the Life of Carry A. Nation by Carry Amelia Nation
