attributable to a fault

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attributable to a fault" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the cause of a problem or issue, indicating that it is due to a specific fault or error. Example: "The delay in the project was attributable to a fault in the software that caused unexpected crashes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

According to the dominant characterization of that position, its central claim is that all injustices are analyzable as unfair inequalities in the distribution of "brute luck" – an advantage or disadvantage that is not attributable to an individual's fault, choice, or assumption of risk.

SEP

Although isolated poljes have been identified elsewhere, their large numbers in the karst of the Dinaric Alps are attributable to a system of active faults as well as to intense solution activity in nearly 9,000 metres of carbonate rock.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is overwhelmingly attributable to a broken health care system.

The New York Times

I think it is attributable, very likely attributable, to a phenomenon that is called perpetuation of racial entitlement.

The New Yorker

This was attributable to a number of reasons.

Britannica

And the House is pretty much the same…I think it is attributable, very likely attributable, to a phenomenon that is called perpetuation of racial entitlement.

The New Yorker

They think it's a systemic problem not attributable to a single group.

The Guardian

Some of the change is demographic rather than attributable to a government policy.

The Guardian

(Attributable to a Yahoo spokesperson).

TechCrunch

This is most likely attributable to a number of factors.

New Zealand Journal of Forestry Science

I would say instead that our growth was largely attributable to a few fundamental strategies.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "attributable to a fault", ensure the fault is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "the delay was attributable to a fault", specify "the delay was attributable to a fault in the software's error handling routine".

Common error

While "attributable to a fault" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal or technical in some situations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "caused by a mistake" or "due to an error" for better clarity and accessibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attributable to a fault" functions as a causal connector, linking a problem or outcome to a specific error or defect. It's used to explain why something happened by identifying the responsible fault. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "attributable to a fault" functions as a formal way to describe the cause of a problem, indicating that it stems from a specific error or defect. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. While grammatically sound, it is quite rare. Simpler alternatives like "caused by a mistake" or "due to an error" might be preferable in less formal contexts for better clarity. The phrase is best used when precision is required, particularly in technical or professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Caused by an error

Focuses specifically on the error as the direct cause.

Due to a defect

Highlights a specific flaw or imperfection as the reason.

A result of a mistake

Emphasizes the mistake leading to the outcome.

Stemming from a failing

Indicates the origin of the problem is a specific failure.

Arising from an imperfection

Points to an imperfection as the source of the issue.

Accountable to an oversight

Highlights the role of negligence or inattention.

Imputable to an inadequacy

Focuses on the lack of sufficient quality or quantity.

Traceable to a shortcoming

Emphasizes the ability to identify the source as a deficiency.

Derived from a misstep

Indicates a wrong or ill-advised action as the root cause.

Ascribed to an inaccuracy

Highlights a lack of precision or correctness.

FAQs

What does "attributable to a fault" mean?

The phrase "attributable to a fault" means that something is caused or can be blamed on a specific error, defect, or shortcoming. It indicates a causal relationship between the fault and the resulting issue.

How can I use "attributable to a fault" in a sentence?

You can use "attributable to a fault" to explain the reason for a problem. For example: "The system failure was "attributable to a fault" in the power supply."

What are some alternatives to "attributable to a fault"?

Some alternatives to "attributable to a fault" include "due to an error", "caused by a mistake", or "stemming from a defect". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to use "attributable to a fault" or "due to a fault"?

Both "attributable to a fault" and "due to a fault" are grammatically correct, but "attributable to a fault" is often perceived as more formal and technical. "Due to a fault" is generally more straightforward and easier to understand.