The word “attribute” is a common term used in English language. It is often used in various contexts, such as in describing a person’s characteristics or in assigning responsibility to someone or something. In this article, we will discuss the definition and meaning of the phrase “attribute (something) to (someone or something)”.
Definitions
To attribute something to someone or something means to assign or credit it to that person or thing. It is the act of associating or linking something to a particular source. For example, if someone says “I attribute my success to hard work and determination”, they are saying that they believe their success is due to their own efforts.
Origin
The word “attribute” comes from the Latin word “attributus”, which means “to assign”. It was first used in English in the 14th century, and has been used ever since to describe the act of assigning something to a particular source.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, to attribute something to someone or something means to “regard something as being caused by, or belonging to, a particular person or thing”. Merriam-Webster defines it as “to explain (something) by indicating a cause, source, or origin”.
Associations
The phrase “attribute (something) to (someone or something)” is often associated with assigning responsibility or blame to a particular person or thing. It can also be used to describe the act of giving credit or recognition to someone for their achievements.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “attribute (something) to (someone or something)” include:
- Credit.
- Assign.
- Impute.
- Accredit.
- Associate with.
- Link to.
- Trace to.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “attribute (something) to (someone or something)” include:
- Discredit.
- Disassociate from.
- Disavow.
- Deny.
- Disclaim.
- Reject.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as “attribute” include:
- Contribution.
- Distribute.
- Retribution.
- Tribute.
Example Sentences
- I attribute my success to my supportive family and friends.
- The company attributed the increase in sales to their new marketing strategy.
- The teacher attributed the student’s poor performance to a lack of effort.
- The police attributed the rise in crime to the economic downturn.
- The author attributed the inspiration for her book to her travels around the world.
The phrase “attribute (something) to (someone or something)” is a common term used in English language. It is the act of assigning or crediting something to a particular source. It can be used in various contexts, such as in describing a person’s characteristics or in assigning responsibility to someone or something. Knowing the meaning and usage of this phrase can help in better communication and understanding of various situations.