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"attributed" vs "can be attributed"

Both 'attributed' and 'can be attributed' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Attributed' is the past tense or past participle form of the verb 'attribute,' while 'can be attributed' is the passive voice construction of the same verb. The choice between them depends on whether you want to use the active or passive voice in your sentence.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

attributed

The word 'attributed' is the past tense or past participle form of the verb 'attribute.' It is commonly used in English.

Use 'attributed' when you want to express that something was credited or assigned to a particular cause, source, or person in the past.

Examples:

  • The success of the project was attributed to her leadership skills.
  • The painting was attributed to a famous artist.
  • The increase in sales can be attributed to the new marketing strategy.

Alternatives:

  • credited to
  • assigned to
  • ascribed to

can be attributed

'Can be attributed' is the passive voice construction of the verb 'attribute.' It is used to indicate that something has the potential to be credited or assigned to a particular cause, source, or person.

Use 'can be attributed' when you want to emphasize the passive voice and the possibility of assigning credit or responsibility to a specific factor.

Examples:

  • The success of the project can be attributed to her leadership skills.
  • The painting can be attributed to a famous artist.
  • The increase in sales can be attributed to the new marketing strategy.

Alternatives:

  • could be attributed
  • may be attributed
  • might be attributed

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