Ascribe

usgb/əˈskraɪb/
verb

To believe or say that something is caused by something else.

He ascribed his success to hard work and dedication.
Visual representation of "ascribe" - To believe or say that something is caused by something else

Often appears as...

  • ascribe to
  • ascribe something
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "ascribe"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Causation Emphasis

Use 'ascribe' when emphasizing the cause of an event or situation.

Illustration for Causation Emphasis
She ascribed her failure to lack of study.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Proven

'Ascribe' often suggests the cause is an opinion, not a proven fact.

Illustration for Not Proven
Critics ascribed the team's loss to poor coaching.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtle Implied Blame

'Ascribe' can subtly imply blame or credit without being direct.

Illustration for Subtle Implied Blame
He ascribed the project's delay to unforeseen circumstances.
Visual representation of the word "Ascribe"

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