the problem is attributable to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the problem is attributable to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when identifying the cause or source of a problem in a discussion or analysis. Example: "After thorough investigation, we concluded that the problem is attributable to a lack of communication among team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Much of the problem is attributable to generic competition.

The New York Times

Most of the problem is attributable to its Telepiu subsidiary in Italy.

The Economist

Apple said the problem is attributable to a vendor quality issue.

Forbes

In both cases, the problem is attributable to the notion of necessity which underlies the Greek conception of knowledge.

SEP

The problem is attributable to inadequate understanding of how a metabolic network functions in a dynamic sense.

Metabolic Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Kia initially resisted the recall, claiming the problem was attributable to adult passengers not being centered on the seat cushion.

The New York Times

At least part of the problem was attributable to pricing; e-Cars, a Fräger affiliate, planned to ask $44,000 for the microcars.

The New York Times

Here are other recent safety actions: Lotus is recalling 80 of its 2011 Evora S models because an oil leak may cause a fire or destroy the supercharged engine, according to a report (PDF) filed by the automaker with N.H.T.S.A. Lotus said the problem was attributable to the rupturing of a flexible three-part variable valve oil feed-pipe assembly.

The New York Times

From 7 to 12 hour, f(t) positive values are mainly displayed, whereas from 17 to 20 hour, f(t) high negative and positive values appear, see Fig. 16b (negative values in f(t) are responsible for negative values in f me, and this has not any physical sense, this means that the signal has changed or is not centered, see Fig. 12, and this problem is attributable to a change in the amplitude).

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

The problem is attributable partly to these questions being necessarily tied to ICHD, which makes it difficult to resolve because there is very limited scope for change.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Finally, a widely-held perception in the Middle East today is that many of the region's socioeconomic problems are attributable to the legacy of the post-World War I and II colonial eras and the exploitive regimes of those times.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the problem is attributable to", ensure that the cause you are identifying is clearly supported by evidence or analysis. Avoid making speculative or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "the problem is attributable to" in casual conversation can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "the problem is because of" or "the problem is due to" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the problem is attributable to" functions as a causal connector, linking a problem to its cause or source. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the problem is attributable to" serves as a causal connector, pinpointing the reason behind an issue. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While versatile, it leans towards formal contexts like news reporting and scientific analysis, as revealed by its frequent use in these domains. For less formal settings, simpler alternatives such as "the problem is due to" are advisable. When using the phrase, ensure you have concrete evidence to support your claim. Remember, there's a variety of semantically similar phrases available to add some variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the difficulty is due to

Replaces 'attributable' with 'due to', a more direct expression of causation.

the source of the problem is

Directly identifies the 'source' as the key factor.

the cause of the problem is

This alternative uses a more direct and explicit structure to identify the cause.

the reason for the problem is

Similar to the previous one, but focuses on the 'reason' behind the problem.

the problem stems from

This alternative uses a different verb, 'stems', to convey the origin of the problem.

the problem is a result of

Focuses on the problem being a 'result' or consequence.

the issue arises from

Uses 'arises' to focus on the emergence of the issue from a particular cause.

the problem originates from

Uses 'originates' to highlight the starting point or source of the issue.

the explanation for the problem is

Highlights that the phrase is offering an explanation of why the problem exists.

the problem can be traced to

This suggests a process of investigation leading to the source.

FAQs

How can I use "the problem is attributable to" in a sentence?

Use "the problem is attributable to" when you want to state that a particular issue or difficulty is caused by a specific factor. For example, "The company's decline in profits is attributable to poor marketing strategies."

What's a simpler way to say "the problem is attributable to"?

You can use simpler phrases like "the problem is due to", "the problem is because of", or "the problem stems from". These alternatives are easier to understand and can be used in less formal contexts.

Is it correct to say "the problem was attributed to" instead of "the problem is attributable to"?

Yes, both are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "The problem is attributable to" indicates a current cause-and-effect relationship, while "the problem was attributed to" suggests a past assignment of cause.

How does "the problem is attributable to" differ from "the problem is related to"?

"The problem is attributable to" indicates a direct cause-and-effect relationship, whereas "the problem is related to" suggests a connection or association, but not necessarily a direct causation.