WordGarden.ioattitudinal
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈætɪtjˌuːdɪnəl/
US
- /ˌætəˈtudənəl/
Meanings
Adjective
relating to attitudes, opinions, or evaluative disposition
expressing a speaker's attitude or evaluation in language
Beyond the definition
"Attitudinal" describes something connected to a person's feelings, beliefs, or way of thinking—their attitude. It focuses on the mindset that influences how a situation is interpreted and handled. A grumpy cashier might have an attitudinal problem, meaning their negativity is affecting their job performance. A company survey might look for attitudinal shifts, analyzing how employee morale changes after new policies are introduced. Think of it as describing the mental or emotional stance someone takes, rather than just their physical actions or technical skills.
The word "attitudinal" relates to attitude—a settled way of thinking or feeling about something. It is used to describe things that stem from a person's perspective or mindset.
You might describe someone as having an "attitudinal problem" if they consistently display a negative or defiant approach. In this context, the word clarifies that the issue isn't about ability or circumstance, but about the person's willingness or outlook. For example: "His attitudinal resistance to the new project made collaboration difficult."
"Attitudinal" is frequently used in technical fields like psychology, sociology, and marketing. Here, it often distinguishes what people believe from what they do. For instance, researchers might compare "attitudinal loyalty" (loving a brand) with "behavioral loyalty" (buying it out of habit).
It's important to note that "attitudinal" isn't necessarily negative. One can have an attitudinal commitment to excellence. However, in casual conversation, it often hints at a stubborn or noticeable mindset. When you encounter the word, focus on the underlying perspective that is shaping the situation.
Examples
- 1
Workplace inclusion
The workshop is meant to encourage attitudinal change toward disability in the workplace.
- 2
Public opinion
The survey showed strong attitudinal support for climate action, but people were less willing to pay higher energy bills.
- Phraseattitudinal support
support in people's opinions, not necessarily in their actions
- 3
Organizational barriers
The report argues that the biggest obstacle is not funding but attitudinal barriers within the organization.
- 4
Policy resistance
Some of the resistance to the new policy was practical, but some of it was clearly attitudinal.
See also
Similar
- attitude-related
- opinion-based
- mindset-related
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- attitudinal change
- attitudinal survey
- attitudinal barriers
- attitudinal data
Word family
- attitude
- attitudinally
Explore
- implicit attitude
- social psychology
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- attitudinaladjective