attributed to them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attributed to them" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the source or origin of a statement, idea, or work that is credited to a specific group or individuals. Example: "The theory was largely attributed to them, despite other scholars contributing to its development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

None was ever convicted of any crime attributed to them.

The New Yorker

Candidates for sainthood usually have two miracles attributed to them.

The New York Times

There is a huge amount of blame to be attributed to them.

The Guardian - Film

An amuletic function has been attributed to them, but this is disputed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Significantly, Liberal Democrat contributions to government policy have not been attributed to them or have been neglected in the media.

The Guardian - Opinion

Understandably, most are reluctant to have their possessions attributed to them, or to speak publicly about them.

The New York Times

Prosecutors have told the judge that the "guards deny using any of the terms or names attributed to them".

The New York Times

Part of the slowdown in innovation among those companies, he said, could be attributed to them "digesting what they learned".

The New York Times

Several people who had been quoted by Lehrer said that they had never uttered the words he attributed to them.

The New York Times

In Kabul, officials at the National Directorate of Security shrugged off the dire warnings attributed to them.

The New York Times

At any rate, I couldn't recall hearing Taylor or Burton say any of the skeins of words attributed to them within quotation marks.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "attributed to them" to objectively present information without implying personal belief in the validity of the attribution.

Common error

Avoid using "attributed to them" without providing evidence or a clear source for the attribution, as this can undermine the accuracy and trustworthiness of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attributed to them" functions as a passive construction indicating the assignment of a characteristic, action, or statement to a specific group. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is frequently used to denote the source of information or responsibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attributed to them" is a versatile construction used to indicate the source or origin of something, whether it be an action, statement, quality, or idea. Ludwig confirms that it enjoys widespread usage across various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedic writing. Alternatives like "credited to them" or "ascribed to them" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. When employing "attributed to them", it's crucial to clearly identify the basis for the attribution to maintain credibility and avoid unsubstantiated claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

credited to them

Emphasizes recognition or acknowledgement for an achievement or quality.

ascribed to them

Highlights the act of assigning a quality or characteristic, often based on inference or belief.

assigned to them

Focuses on the act of formally giving a task, duty, or responsibility.

linked to them

Highlights a connection or association between two things.

associated with them

Indicates a general connection or relationship, often without specifying causality.

imputed to them

Suggests attributing something, often negative, to someone.

traced back to them

Emphasizes the origin or source of something.

blamed on them

Specifically assigns fault or responsibility for a negative outcome.

placed upon them

Focuses on the act of imposing a burden, responsibility, or expectation.

due to them

Indicates that something is owed or caused by their actions or qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "attributed to them" in a sentence?

You can use "attributed to them" to indicate that a particular action, quality, or idea is believed to have originated from or is associated with a specific group. For example, "The success of the project was largely "attributed to them" because of their dedication and expertise."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "attributed to them"?

Alternatives include phrases like "credited to them", "ascribed to them", or "assigned to them", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "attributed to them" and "related to them"?

"Attributed to them" implies a direct cause, origin, or source. "Related to them" suggests a connection or association, but not necessarily direct causation. The choice depends on the specific relationship you're describing.

When is it appropriate to use "attributed to them"?

It is appropriate to use "attributed to them" when you have reason to believe that something can be traced back to a particular source, but you may not have definitive proof or want to suggest complete certainty. It is often used when summarizing existing beliefs or attributing actions without expressing your own opinion on their validity.