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I have a situation.

He identifies himself as a musician, finding his inspirations in nature. OR He identifies himself with a musician, finding his inspirations in nature.

which of these is correct please and why? thanks,

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  • Both are correct; "he identifies as a musician" means that he considers himself to be a musician, while "he identifies with a musician" means that there is a musician that he considers himself to have many similar characteristics to. Jul 11, 2015 at 8:37
  • it's all clear now, can you please answer the question in order to validate? many thanks.
    – user124853
    Jul 11, 2015 at 8:46
  • Just as soon as I can find a source for my answer other than "I'm a native English speaker." :) Jul 11, 2015 at 8:48
  • lol, u're unsure? :)
    – user124853
    Jul 11, 2015 at 8:53
  • No, I'm certain, but a good answer on StackExchange has evidence and references to back it up. Jul 11, 2015 at 8:54

1 Answer 1

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Both are grammatically correct.

"He identifies himself as a musician" means that he considers himself to be a musician.

identify (v): 1. establish or indicate who or what (someone or something) is

"He identifies himself with a musician" means that there is another musician that he considers himself to have many similar characteristics to.

identify (v): 2. associate someone or something closely with; regard as having strong links with

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