"can be attributed to" vs "should be attributed to"

Question

"can be attributed to" vs "should be attributed to"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Should be attributed to' is used when assigning credit or responsibility for something, indicating a strong recommendation or obligation. 'Can be attributed to' is used to suggest a possible cause or reason for something, without implying a strong recommendation or obligation.

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that credit or responsibility for something may possibly be assigned to a particular person or thing.

Examples:

The increase in sales can be attributed to the new marketing strategy.
The decline in performance can be attributed to lack of training.
The success of the event can be attributed to the hard work of the volunteers.
The delay in delivery can be attributed to logistical issues.
The improvement in health can be attributed to regular exercise.

Alternatives:

may be attributed to
might be attributed to
could be attributed to
is possibly attributed to
is potentially attributed to

This phrase is used to indicate that credit or responsibility for something must be assigned to a particular person or thing.

Examples:

The success of the project should be attributed to the hard work of the team.
The error should be attributed to a lack of communication.
The discovery should be attributed to the scientist's dedication.
The failure should be attributed to poor planning.
The improvement should be attributed to the new technology.

Alternatives:

must be attributed to
ought to be attributed to
is to be attributed to
is credited to
is owed to

Answer 1

can be attributed to

This phrase is correct and commonly used to suggest a possible cause or reason for something, without implying a strong recommendation or obligation.

Answer 2

should be attributed to

This phrase is correct and commonly used when assigning credit or responsibility for something, indicating a strong recommendation or obligation.

"can be attributed to" vs "should be attributed to"

can be attributed to

should be attributed to

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