Attitudessuch

Attitudessuch is a neologism used in sociolinguistics and rhetoric to describe a rhetorical pattern wherein a speaker attributes a set of dispositions to a group or category by using evaluative phrases such as “attitudes such as” or by framing certain dispositions as typical. The term draws attention to how generalizations about beliefs or character are constructed through specific exemplars, rather than through direct statements about all members of a group.

Definition and usage

Attitudessuch refers to a discourse strategy that foregrounds representative attitudes to shape audience judgment. It often involves listing or signaling a few exemplars and treating them as broadly indicative, thereby guiding interpretation without claiming exhaustive accuracy. This pattern can function to legitimize conclusions, anchor normative judgments, or simplify complex belief systems for rhetorical effect.

Examples and functions

In political or media rhetoric, speakers may invoke attitudessuch to create an impression of consensus or to demonize opposition by implying that insubstantial or conflicting views are outliers. In everyday conversation, it can appear when someone says, “Attitudes such as mistrust in institutions are common among…” to frame a perceived trend. The function is pragmatic: it speeds persuasion, anchors in-group norms, and sometimes masks nuance.

Relation to other concepts

Attitudessuch relates to stance-taking, generalization, and labeling in discourse analysis. It differs from a plain list by treating selected attitudes as representative, rather than as merely a descriptive catalog. It can contribute to stereotyping if misused or overextended.

Critique and reception

Scholars note that attitudessuch can blur complexity and lead to overgeneralization. Critics emphasize the need for caution when interpreting such constructions and for supporting claims with empirical evidence.

See also: attitude, stereotype, discourse analysis, rhetoric.