Is there specific syntax for creating attribute text expressions?

Question

I am working on creating a symbol with building an expression with the parts database attribute text displayed as well as generic text with it. When I do so, the parts database attributes do not pull in the data. They do however pull in the data if placed in the symbol direct (not through building expression). 
 Example of what I'm looking for: 
 [Part_manufacturer] followed by "CABLE#" 
 I've entered it as [Part_manufacturer] CABLE#, [Part_manufacturer]+CABLE#, [Part_manufacturer] "CABLE#" 
 The word CABLE always appears, but the parts database item doesn't show up. That portion is blank. Am I doing something wrong?

Matt_P · Accepted Answer

Aaron, I don't think you're doing anything wrong. The part database attributes do not work in expressions. I have reported this to development as TFS 24877. The workaround would be to insert part database attributes individually instead of as expressions. Perhaps some creative use of text alignment/justification would help make it appear as desired.

Tani_S · Answer

So are you saying that you are trying to type in your own symbol attribute, not just insert one from the list in the expression builder? If so then that is not possible. The only variables you can use are the ones in the list that you select and use the "add to expression" button. Then you are free to type in your own plain text to add to the expression, but you can't type in any variable name that doesn't already exist in the list.