DictionaryidentifyPersonal connection
verb

identify

To regard things as sharing a common character.

Many readers identify with the young hero's struggle to fit in.

Etymology

The source verb means to make the same. This use of identify treats separate things as sharing one character or identity, rather than merely recognizing their names.

More examples

  • She identifies more with her coworkers than with company leadership.
  • People often identify the city with its music scene.
  • He refuses to identify success with wealth.

Forms

identify · identifies · identified · identifying

identification noun — A feeling of connection or shared qualities.

Similar words

relate
Emphasizes understanding another person's feelings through shared experience.
equate
Treats two things as equal, not merely closely connected.
associate
Links things mentally without necessarily treating them as alike.