recognize by

recognize (someone or something) by (something)

To be able to identify or remember someone or something because of some distinguishing trait, characteristic, behavior, etc. I was able to recognize him by the unmistakable mark on the right side of his face. You should be able to recognize their house by the large Italian flag they always have hanging from their front porch.
See also: by, recognize
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

recognize someone or something by something

to know someone or something by some distinguishing sign. You will be able to recognize me by my long mustache. Mary recognized her car by the ribbon tied to the antenna.
See also: by, recognize
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • recognize (someone or something) by (something)
  • get through to (someone or something)
  • sleep
  • go critical
  • able to take just so much
  • able to take only so much
  • able for (something)
  • get past (someone or something)
  • all able-bodied people
  • able to make (something)