Examples of Attributes

By
Updated November 6, 2020
Examples of Attributes
  • DESCRIPTION
    two women talking - good listener
  • PERMISSION
    ThinkStock

An attribute is defined as a quality or characteristic of a person, place, or thing. Real life individuals and fictional characters possess various attributes. For example, someone might be labeled beautiful, charming, funny, or intelligent. These are all attributes, but don't those labels seem to ring true as traits too?

There is a difference between attributes and traits, but it is slight and some characteristics could be considered either an attribute or a trait. Let's consider the difference between the two, and throw in skills too, before we take a look at some examples of attributes.

Difference Between Attributes, Skills, and Traits

We know an attribute is a quality or characteristic of a person, place, or thing. It's an identifying label that alludes to something inherent about them, like charm or cruelty.

A skill, on the other hand, is generally something that is taught. A person will undergo training to learn or improve a particular skill. These might include calligraphy, computer coding, or car repair.

Meanwhile, a trait is an ingrained characteristic or habit that is difficult to learn or unlearn, like shyness or confidence.

To explore the topic of traits more, take a look at some character trait examples.

Positive Attributes

As you look at people around you or develop a character study for your latest short story or novel, how would you label them? What are their attributes? Will these labels denote positive qualities or characteristics? If so, try one of these attributes on for size:

Achiever

Exciting

Meditative

Pleasant

Sensible

Adaptable

Flexible

Mediator

Positive

Sensitive

Ambitious

Focused

Modest

Practical

Sincere

Balanced

Forgiving

Organized

Proactive

Skilled

Cheerful

Generous

Original

Productive

Solid

Consistent

Genuine

Outgoing

Professional

Sporty

Cooperative

Helpful

Particular

Quality

Thoughtful

Courageous

Insightful

Patient

Quick

Trustworthy

Curious

Interesting

Perceptive

Racy

Understanding

Devoted

Inventive

Personable

Responsible

Warm

Advertisement

Negative Attributes

Every story needs conflict or a villain. Although one of these attributes may not be their identifying characteristic, or trait, it might be one of the markers you'll use to describe them. Let's take a look:

Arrogant

Cynical

Inflexible

Pessimistic

Thoughtless

Belligerent

Deceitful

Intolerant

Pompous

Truculent

Boastful

Detached

Irresponsible

Possessive

Unkind

Boring

Dishonest

Jealous

Quarrelsome

Unpredictable

Bossy

Domineering

Lazy

Resentful

Unreliable

Callous

Foolish

Mean

Rude

Untrustworthy

Careless

Greedy

Moody

Sarcastic

Vague

Compulsive

Gullible

Nasty

Selfish

Vain

Cowardly

Impolite

Nervous

Stupid

Vengeful

Cruel

Inconsiderate

Patronizing

Tactless

Vulgar

Professional Attributes

Finally, some attributes aren't quite so personal. Especially in the workplace, certain attributes are simply matter-of-fact. Maybe one of the characters in your book will meet his enterprising lawyer or efficient book editor. If so, you might want to consider honing in on one of these attributes:

Accountable

Dependable

Focused

Motivated

Respectful

Adaptable

Determined

Forgiving

Objective

Scheduled

Authentic

Diligent

Generous

Organized

Scrupulous

Broadminded

Disciplined

Hardworking

Passionate

Selfless

Caring

Effective

Humble

Patient

Sincere

Collaborative

Efficient

Innovative

Perseverant

Studious

Consistent

Empathetic

Kind

Planner

Thinker

Courteous

Engaging

Listens well

Precise

Transparent

Credible

Enthusiastic

Loyal

Proactive

Trustworthy

Decisive

Evolving

Methodical

Realistic

Truthful

Advertisement

Attributes Abound

Most of us have more than one attribute. We can be clever and funny, or beautiful and honest. While it's true traits are more singular and identifying, it's interesting to see people's attributes unfold. Whether real-life or fictional, attributes abound for many of us.

If you'd like to dive deeper into aspects of personality types and traits, enjoy these Examples of Personality Traits. There, you'll learn more about the famous Myers-Briggs indicators and it may help you develop your new character with wonderful depth. Happy labeling!