PsychologyAugust 17, 2026
attributional
a-truh-BYOO-shuh-nul
Definition
Relating to the process of assigning a cause, quality, or responsibility to a person or behavior.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'attributio,' meaning 'assignment,' which comes from 'attribuere' (to assign or bestow), composed of 'ad-' (to) and 'tribuere' (to allot or pay).
In the news
The article uses the term to describe 'attributional ambiguity,' referring to the uncertainty observers feel when trying to discern the true source or motivation behind a leader's apparent charisma.
10 insights into the mystery of charisma.
Read the full article ↗Psychology Today