Definition

Relating to the act of assigning a cause or reason to something.

Example

The attributional theory explains how people interpret the actions of others.

Conversation

I was reading about how people have different attributional styles.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It refers to how we explain our successes and failures.

That makes sense! I guess it can really affect our mindset.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Attributional is formed from "attribute" (from Latin "attributus", meaning assigned or attributed) and "-ional" (meaning relating to). The word "attributional" refers to something that relates to the act of assigning or attributing qualities or characteristics.

Memory Tip

Think of 'attribute' as assigning qualities, and '-ional' means relating to. So, attributional helps you remember that it relates to the act of assigning characteristics.

Visually Confused Words