# attributedString(for:withDefaultAttributes:) The default implementation returns `nil` to indicate that the formatter object does not provide an attributed string. ``` func attributedString(for obj: Any, withDefaultAttributes attrs: [NSAttributedString.Key : Any]? = nil) -> NSAttributedString? ``` ## Parameters `obj` The object for which a textual representation is returned. `attrs` The default attributes to use for the returned attributed string. ## Return Value An attributed string that represents `anObject`. ## Discussion When implementing a subclass, return an `NSAttributedString` object if the string for display should have some attributes. For instance, you might want negative values in a financial application to appear in red text. Invoke your implementation of [`string(for:)`](/documentation/Foundation/Formatter/string(for:)) to get the non-attributed string, then create an `NSAttributedString` object with it (see [`init(string:)`](/documentation/Foundation/NSAttributedString/init(string:))). Use the `attributes` default dictionary to reset the attributes of the string when a change in value warrants it (for example, a negative value becomes positive) For information on creating attributed strings, see [Attributed String Programming Guide](https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/documentation/Cocoa/Conceptual/AttributedStrings/AttributedStrings.html#//apple_ref/doc/uid/10000036i). --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)