Ascription: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when attributing or assigning something to a cause or source, often in a formal or academic context.

• The ascription of the novel to an unknown author created much debate among literary scholars.
• His success was largely due to the ascription of his achievements to hard work and dedication.

Used when designating a task or responsibility to someone, often in educational or professional settings.

• The assignment of roles in the group project was done by the team leader.
• Students received their homework assignment at the end of the class.

Used when giving credit to the creator or source of a piece of work, statement, or idea, often in media, academic, or research contexts.

• The attribution of the quote to Albert Einstein has been disputed.
• Proper attribution of sources is essential in academic writing.

Used when distributing resources, time, or money among various entities or projects, often in management, finance, or government.

• The allocation of funds to the new project was approved by the board.
• The teacher's allocation of time meant that each student got individual attention.

Used in academic or formal settings when referring to the act of assigning a cause, origin, or characteristic to someone or something.

• The ascription of these traits to cultural heritage is highly debated.
• His ascription of the artwork to the Renaissance period was accepted by most historians.

Typically used in both casual and formal settings to denote the process of indicating the source or author of something, such as a quote, idea, or action.

• Proper attribution of sources is crucial in academic writing.
• The scientist's attribution of the discovery to her mentor was gracious and appreciative.

Often used in legal, religious, or moral contexts to suggest the act of assigning blame or responsibility, sometimes with a negative connotation.

• The imputation of guilt on the defendant was based on circumstantial evidence.
• His imputation of dishonesty was met with outrage from his colleagues.

Commonly used in everyday situations to refer to the act of giving someone a task or responsibility, especially in work or educational environments.

• The assignment of homework was met with groans from the students.
• Her assignment of duties to team members was efficient and clear.