# attributable

/əˈtɹɪbjətəbəɫ/ (US) · /ɐtɹˈɪbjuːtəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/attributable
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

able to be explained by a specific cause or reason. You use it to show where something comes from.

For teachers: capable of being assigned to a particular cause, source, or origin. Typically used with the preposition 'to'.

## Examples

- The success is attributable to hard work.
- The sudden drop in sales is attributable to the new competitor opening nearby.
- While some critics attribute the novel's complexity to the author's academic background, I find it more attributable to her desire to challenge conventional narrative structures.

## Usage notes

- The adjective is typically followed by the preposition 'to'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.