Definition

A quality or feature that belongs to someone or something, often used to describe their characteristics.

Example

Kindness is an important attribute of a good leader.

Conversation

I think creativity is a really important attribute for any artist.

Absolutely! It helps them stand out from the crowd.

What other attributes do you think are essential for success?

Perseverance is key; without it, creativity can only take you so far.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To consider something as being caused by or belonging to a particular person, place, or thing.

Example

The researchers attribute the increase in temperature to climate change.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the new artist they attribute to the modern art scene?

Yeah, I saw some of their work online, it’s really impressive!

I wonder what they attribute their unique style to.

Root Explanation

Attribute → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "tribuere" (meaning to assign or bestow). The word "attribute" means to assign a quality or characteristic to someone or something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'assigning' a quality ('tribuere') to something — that's why attribute means to ascribe a characteristic.

Visually Confused Words