attribute (something) to (someone or something)

phrase

1

: to say that (something) is because of (someone or something)

He attributes his success to his coach.

His doctor attributes his health problems to a poor diet and a lack of exercise.

2

: to think of (something) as being a quality of (someone or something)

The study suggests that it is a mistake to attribute adult reasoning to children.

Is it right to attribute complex emotions to animals?

She attributed some importance to the research.

3

: to think of (something) as being made or created by (someone)

The poem is usually attributed to Shakespeare, but some scholars doubt that he wrote it.

Examples of attribute (something) to (someone or something) in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Extremely tight ponytails or other styles, heavy tracks of hair extensions, weaves and cosmetic heat treatments that pull on our hair can also attribute to hair loss, according to American Academy of Dermatology Association. — Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 8 Mar. 2026

Water hydrants were left depleted during the emergency as well, which officials attribute to the high demand for water. — City News Service, Daily News, 4 Mar. 2026

The health care sector accounted for the vast majority of new openings last year, which economists widely attribute to a growing population aging into a new phase of care needs. — Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 1 Mar. 2026

But the first-time candidate’s rhetoric strikes us as more accepting of alternative viewpoints than Rice’s — a critical attribute to attracting support from independents and Democrats necessary to win in this district. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026