generally attributed to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally attributed to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the common belief or acknowledgment of the origin of an idea, quote, or work. Example: "The famous quote, 'To be or not to be,' is generally attributed to William Shakespeare."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Economic policies are generally attributed to Premier Zhu Rongji.

The New Yorker

A fortuneteller or palmist.... literature: a word of unknown provenance, generally attributed to 'litter' or waste".

The New York Times - Books

That is generally attributed to improved methods for removing the methane, which were first developed here.

The New York Times

(Its failure is now generally attributed to Franco Zeffirelli's elaborate and overblown production).

The Guardian - Music

Increased salmon runs in the Columbia are generally attributed to ocean conditions.

The New York Times

German postwar prosperity is generally attributed to hard work, native ingenuity, and fine organization.

The New Yorker

This wrenching business is generally attributed to Mozart, because he gave it such lovely music.

The New Yorker

Two small fragments on bird catching (De aucupio) are also generally attributed to him.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Footprints generally attributed to prosauropods appear to substantiate both forms of locomotion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This phenomenon is generally attributed to reflection of incident sunlight by the dewdrops.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The discovery of X inactivation is generally attributed to British geneticist Mary Lyon, and it is therefore often called "lyonization".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "generally attributed to", ensure that the attribution is widely accepted but not necessarily definitively proven. This phrase works best when there's a common understanding or consensus rather than an absolute certainty.

Common error

Avoid using "generally attributed to" when the cause or origin is definitively known and proven. In such cases, a more direct statement of fact is appropriate. Instead of "generally attributed to", use "is caused by" or "is a result of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally attributed to" functions as a passive voice construction used to indicate a common belief or understanding about the cause, origin, or source of something. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

22%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generally attributed to" is a versatile phrase used to express common but not definitively proven associations or attributions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. Its usage spans across diverse fields, notably Science, News & Media, and Encyclopedias, indicating its applicability in various formal and informal contexts. Remember to employ this phrase when describing widely held beliefs rather than established facts, and consider alternatives like "commonly credited to" or "often ascribed to" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically associated with

Emphasizes the typical or expected connection between two things.

often ascribed to

Focuses on the act of assigning or attributing something, often a quality or idea, to a specific source.

commonly credited to

Focuses on the act of giving credit, particularly for an achievement or creation. It emphasizes recognition of the source.

primarily a result of

Indicates that something is mainly the outcome or consequence of a specific cause or action.

frequently linked to

Highlights the connection as something that happens regularly.

largely due to

Indicates that something is mainly caused or influenced by a particular factor.

mostly explained by

Suggests that something can be primarily understood or accounted for by a specific reason or factor.

widely recognized as stemming from

Highlights the recognition of the origin or cause of something being broad and widespread.

commonly believed to originate from

Emphasizes the widespread belief about the source or beginning of something.

understood as resulting from

Highlights that a particular outcome is understood as a direct consequence of something else.

FAQs

What does "generally attributed to" mean?

The phrase "generally attributed to" means that something is commonly believed or recognized to be caused by, created by, or associated with a particular person, thing, or event. It suggests a widespread but not necessarily definitively proven connection.

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

You can use "generally attributed to" to indicate a common understanding of the cause or origin of something. For example: "The increase in melanoma death rates in men is "generally attributed to" historical birth cohort trends in sun exposure."

What are some alternatives to "generally attributed to"?

Alternatives to "generally attributed to" include phrases like "commonly credited to", "often ascribed to", or "typically associated with". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "generally attributed to" in formal writing?

Yes, "generally attributed to" is appropriate for formal writing. It is commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts to discuss widely held beliefs or recognized causes without implying absolute certainty.