Identical vs. Identity — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on March 15, 2024
Identical refers to being exactly the same, often used for objects or concepts. Identity denotes the characteristics determining who or what a person or thing is.
Difference Between Identical and Identity
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Identical often implies a perfect sameness in every detail, such as identical twins or products from the same batch. This sameness is usually observable and measurable, focusing on the exterior similarities or identical functionalities. Identity, on the other hand, delves into the deeper aspects of a person or thing, encompassing a wide range of attributes including personality, culture, and personal experiences. It's about the essence that distinguishes one entity from another.
While identical is used to describe objects, concepts, or beings that share an exact likeness or uniformity, implying no discernible difference between them, identity encompasses a broader and more complex concept. It refers to the unique set of characteristics, values, and beliefs that define a person or thing. Identity can change and evolve over time, influenced by external factors and internal growth.
Identical can often be quantitatively measured or observed. For instance, two identical pieces of machinery have the same specifications and perform the same functions in an interchangeable manner. Identity, however, is qualitative and subjective, deeply rooted in an entity's history, culture, personal choices, and experiences. It shapes how individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others.
In practical application, identical is frequently used in scientific, manufacturing, and comparative contexts where precision and duplication are key. It’s crucial in environments where uniformity is necessary for fairness, consistency, or reliability. Identity, however, is a fundamental concept in sociology, psychology, and philosophy, exploring the nuances of existence, belonging, and personal development.
Identical objects or entities facilitate predictability and interchangeability, crucial in areas like manufacturing or when conducting controlled experiments. Identity plays a vital role in social cohesion, personal fulfillment, and the diversity of cultures and ideas, highlighting the importance of individual and collective identities in shaping societies and interactions.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Exact sameness in every detail
The distinguishing character or personality of an individual
Contexts
Scientific, manufacturing, comparison
Sociology, psychology, philosophy
Measurement
Quantitative (observable, measurable)
Qualitative (subjective, experiential)
Stability
Generally static
Dynamic, evolving over time
Importance
Precision, duplication, interchangeability
Personal development, social cohesion, diversity
Compare with Definitions
Identical
Exactly alike, without any difference.
The identical twins were impossible to tell apart at the family reunion.
Identity
The fact of being who or what a person or thing is.
His identity as a poet plays a significant role in his community.
Identical
Equal in every detail.
The two paintings were so identical that the museum visitors couldn't distinguish between them.
Identity
The collective aspect of the set of characteristics by which a thing is definitively recognizable or known.
The company’s brand identity is reflected in its logo and marketing materials.
Identical
Being the same in every way.
The laboratory ordered identical test tubes for consistency in experiments.
Identity
A close similarity or affinity.
There is a strong identity of interests among the club members.
Identical
Perfectly matching or mirroring another.
She bought two identical dresses, one in red and one in blue.
Identity
The condition of being oneself and not another.
The witness confirmed the identity of the suspect.
Identical
Interchangeable with something else without any discrepancy.
The replacement part was identical to the original, fitting perfectly.
Identity
The distinguishing character or personality of an individual.
She explores her identity through her artwork.
Identical
Being the same
Another orator who used the senator's identical words.
Identity
The fact of being who or what a person or thing is
She believes she is the victim of mistaken identity
He knows the identity of the bombers
Identical
Exactly equal and alike
Your car is identical to mine. Are the fingerprints at the crime scene identical with those of the accused?.
Identity
A close similarity or affinity
An identity between the company's own interests and those of the local community
Identical
(Biology) Of or relating to a twin or twins developed from the same fertilized ovum and having the same genetic makeup and closely similar appearance; monozygotic.
Identity
A transformation that leaves an object unchanged.
Identical
(not comparable) Bearing full likeness by having precisely the same set of characteristics; indistinguishable.
Identity
The equality of two expressions for all values of the quantities expressed by letters, or an equation expressing this, e.g. (x + 1)² = x² + 2x + 1.
Identical
(not comparable) Not different or other; not another or others; not different as regards self; selfsame; numerically identical.
Identity
The condition of being a certain person or thing
What is the identity of the author of the manuscript?.
Identical
Of twins, sharing the same genetic code.
Identity
The set of characteristics by which a person or thing is definitively recognizable or known
"The identity of the nation had ... been keenly contested in the period of nationalist opposition to Imperial rule" (Judith M. Brown).
Identical
Exactly equivalent.
Identity
The awareness that an individual or group has of being a distinct, persisting entity
"He felt more at home thousands of miles from Britain than he did in an English village four miles from his home ... Was he losing his identity?" (Robert Fallon).
Identical
Approximating or approaching exact equivalence.
Identity
The fact or condition of being the same as something else
The identity of the two handwriting samples was established by an expert.
Identical
Something which has exactly the same properties as something else.
Identity
The fact or condition of being associated or affiliated with something else
The identity between mass and energy.
Identical
An identical twin.
Identity
Information, such as an identification number, used to establish or prove a person's individuality, as in providing access to a credit account.
Identical
The same; the selfsame; the very same; not different; as, the identical person or thing.
I can not remember a thing that happened a year ago, without a conviction . . . that I, the same identical person who now remember that event, did then exist.
Identity
An equation that is satisfied by any number that replaces the letter for which the equation is defined.
Identical
Uttering sameness or the same truth; expressing in the predicate what is given, or obviously implied, in the subject; tautological.
When you say body is solid, I say that you make an identical proposition, because it is impossible to have the idea of body without that of solidity.
Identity
Identity element.
Identical
Exactly alike; incapable of being perceived as different;
Rows of identical houses
Cars identical except for their license plates
They wore indistinguishable hats
Identity
Sameness, identicalness; the quality or fact of (several specified things) being the same.
Identical
Being the exact same one; not any other:;
This is the identical room we stayed in before
The themes of his stories are one and the same
Saw the selfsame quotation in two newspapers
On this very spot
The very thing he said yesterday
The very man I want to see
Identity
The difference or character that marks off an individual or collective from the rest of the same kind, selfhood, sense of who something or someone or oneself is, or the recurring characteristics that enable the recognition of such an individual or group by others or themself.
I've been through so many changes, I have no sense of identity.
This nation has a strong identity.
Identical
(of twins) derived from a single egg or ovum;
Identical twins are monovular
Identity
A name or persona—a mask or appearance one presents to the world—by which one is known.
This criminal has taken on several identities.
In this show, the competitor's identity will remain secret until after the vote.
Identical
Having properties with uniform values along all axes
Identity
(mathematics) An equation which always holds true regardless of the choice of input variables.
The equation (x+y)(x−y) = x2−y2 is an algebraic identity. It is true regardless of the values of x and y.
Identical
Coinciding exactly when superimposed;
Identical triangles
Identity
Any function which maps all elements of its domain to themselves.
Identity
(algebra) An element of an algebraic structure which, when applied to another element under an operation in that structure, yields this second element.
Identity
A well-known or famous person.
Identity
The state or quality of being identical, or the same; sameness.
Identity is a relation between our cognitions of a thing, not between things themselves.
Identity
The condition of being the same with something described or asserted, or of possessing a character claimed; as, to establish the identity of stolen goods.
Identity
An identical equation.
Identity
The distinct personality of an individual regarded as a persisting entity;
You can lose your identity when you join the army
Identity
The individual characteristics by which a thing or person is recognized or known;
Geneticists only recently discovered the identity of the gene that causes it
It was too dark to determine his identity
She guessed the identity of his lover
Identity
An operator that leaves unchanged the element on which it operates;
The identity under numerical multiplication is 1
Identity
Exact sameness;
They shared an identity of interests
Common Curiosities
What does it mean when two things are identical?
When two things are identical, they are exactly the same in every detail, without any discernible difference.
How does identity play a role in society?
Identity plays a crucial role in society by influencing how individuals perceive themselves and interact with others, shaping cultural norms and social cohesion.
Is identity always constant?
No, identity is dynamic and can evolve over time based on personal experiences, growth, and changes in societal or cultural influences.
How do manufacturers ensure products are identical?
Manufacturers use precise standards, quality control processes, and technologies to ensure products are identical in specifications and performance.
Can two people have identical identities?
While two people may share similar traits or beliefs, their identities are unique, shaped by individual experiences and personal choices.
How do identical twins differ in terms of identity?
Identical twins may be genetically identical but can have different identities shaped by their personal experiences, choices, and interactions.
Can identical objects have different identities?
Yes, identical objects can have different identities if they have different histories, meanings, or associations attached to them.
How can someone explore their identity?
Someone can explore their identity through self-reflection, creative expression, exploring diverse cultures, and engaging in personal development activities.
Are identical products always preferred?
Identical products are preferred in contexts requiring uniformity and precision, but diversity and uniqueness can be valued in personal or artistic contexts.
Can an individual’s identity change?
Yes, an individual's identity can change over time due to personal growth, experiences, and changes in social or cultural environments.
What is the significance of identity in relationships?
Identity is significant in relationships as it influences how individuals connect, understand, and support each other, reflecting shared and individual values.
Why is understanding identity important in psychology?
Understanding identity is important in psychology to comprehend individual behaviors, motivations, and the impact of societal influences on personal development.
How do social media platforms affect identity?
Social media platforms can affect identity by offering spaces for self-expression, influencing perceptions, and shaping interactions with others.
What role does culture play in shaping identity?
Culture plays a significant role in shaping identity by influencing values, beliefs, behaviors, and the sense of belonging to a community.
What is the relationship between identity and personal growth?
Identity and personal growth are closely related, as exploring and understanding one’s identity can lead to personal development, self-awareness, and fulfillment.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
