The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word IMPUTES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
I
M
P
U
T
E
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Attributes" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case attributes = imputes.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does IMPUTES mean?
IMPUTES verb- To attribute or ascribe (responsibility or fault) to a cause or source.
- To ascribe (sin or righteousness) to someone by substitution.
- To take into account.
- To attribute or credit to.
- To replace missing data with substituted values.