attributes

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "attributes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the qualities of a particular thing. For example, "The attributes of a successful leader include intelligence, creativity, and flexibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His range of attributes – technical ability, finishing and relentless pressing – are well‑suited to the manager's designs for the team.

The Guardian - Sport

Although neither of these films could claim comic greatness, Gerwig attributes her taste for comedy to growing up with the complete set of Fawlty Towers on VHS.

The Guardian - Film

Instead of an advert about the attributes of the product, they got a powerful message.

The Guardian

She attributes her change of direction to the informal course she took at Foyer, which was run by the environmental regeneration charity Groundwork.

The Guardian

And so many of the cultural affiliations of military life – regiments, the Royal British Legion, the commanders-in-chief – are intimately bound up with the historic Protestant and imperial attributes of the British royal family.

The Guardian

Being steady under pressure is one of Cameron's better attributes, though he does seem to have a short fuse (not the same thing).

The Guardian

Right from the start, the next leader of the Labour party has to place education at the core of their political project – it speaks to all the attributes of aspiration, the future and promise we need to own.

The Guardian

We should harness these attributes, combine their strength, and deploy them for full effect.

The Guardian

Firstly, he attributes this to the fact that his kidney treatment is incomplete; he too has had financial difficulties.

The Guardian

The games, also used to deduce prospective signings' suitability for the Dynamo Kiev side of the time, tested a range of attributes from nerve and endurance to reaction times and memory.

The Guardian - Sport

It is vital for the NFP sector to emphasise its attributes if it is to attract top talent, delegates heard.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something, use a variety of synonyms for "attributes", such as "characteristics", "qualities", and "features", to make your writing more engaging and precise.

Common error

In technical documentation, avoid relying solely on the term "attributes". Instead, clarify whether you are referring to "properties", "parameters", or "specifications" to enhance clarity and reduce ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The word "attributes" primarily functions as a noun, referring to the qualities, characteristics, or features that belong to a person or thing. It can also function as a verb, in the third-person singular form of "attribute", meaning to regard something as being caused by someone or something. Ludwig confirms this dual functionality, showcasing its versatility in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

15%

Film

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "attributes" is a versatile term primarily functioning as a noun to describe qualities or characteristics. According to Ludwig, it's also used as a verb meaning to assign something as a cause. Its usage spans from neutral to formal contexts, commonly appearing in news, sports, and film, as highlighted by Ludwig examples. When writing, consider using synonyms like "characteristics", "qualities", or "features" for variety. Remember, while grammatically sound, overusing "attributes" in technical writing can lead to ambiguity. Finally, ensure you use "attributes of" to describe inherent qualities and "attributes to" when assigning causation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

characteristics

Focuses more directly on distinguishing features.

qualities

Emphasizes inherent nature or excellence.

features

Highlights notable parts or aspects.

properties

Stresses inherent or distinctive traits.

traits

Refers to specific qualities of a person or thing.

aspects

Focuses on particular parts or elements.

elements

Refers to the fundamental components or parts.

characteristics and features

Combines two common synonyms to emphasize both inherent qualities and notable aspects.

defining features

Highlights the features that are essential for identifying something.

inherent qualities

Stresses qualities that are naturally part of something.

FAQs

How can I use "attributes" in a sentence?

You can use "attributes" to describe the qualities or characteristics of something. For example, "The key "attributes" of a successful leader include vision, integrity, and communication skills."

What are some alternatives to the word "attributes"?

Alternatives to "attributes" include "characteristics", "qualities", "features", and "properties". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "attributes of" or "attributes to"?

It is correct to say "attributes of" when describing the qualities belonging to something. The phrase "attributes to" is used when you assign a quality or characteristic to something, as in "He "attributes" his success to hard work".

What is the difference between "attributes" and "characteristics"?

"Attributes" and "characteristics" are often used interchangeably, but "attributes" can sometimes imply a more inherent or essential quality, while "characteristics" can refer to any distinguishing feature.