Finding other ways to say “according to” can enhance your writing and communication by adding variety and precision. Whether you’re drafting an academic paper, writing a news article, or engaging in everyday conversation, using these alternatives can make your message more engaging and clear.
In this post, we’ll explore 15 alternatives to “according to,” complete with explanations and examples to help you incorporate them into your daily language.
Another Way to Say “According To”?
Here are 15 other phrases for according to:
- As per
- In accordance with
- Based on
- As reported by
- In the words of
- By the account of
- As Stated By
- Following
- In line with
- On the authority of
- As mentioned by
- As Declared By
- Citing
- Referencing
- From what I’ve heard
1. As per
“As per” is a formal expression used to reference something that has been previously stated or agreed upon. It implies adherence to a particular source or instruction and is commonly used in professional or legal contexts.
This phrase is effective when you want to emphasize that your actions or statements are in alignment with a specific guideline, document, or communication. It adds a level of formality and precision to your language.
Usage Examples:
- In an email: “As per our last meeting, we will proceed with the project next Monday.”
- In a contract: “Payments will be made monthly, as per the terms outlined above.”
- In instructions: “Please submit your report by Friday, as per the manager’s request.”
2. In accordance with
“In accordance with” is a formal way to indicate that something is compliant with a rule, law, or request. It suggests strict adherence to a specified standard or directive.
This phrase is particularly useful in legal, academic, or official documents where precision and formality are required. It conveys respect for the authority of the source being referenced.
Usage Examples:
- In a policy document: “All employees must act in accordance with the company’s code of conduct.”
- In a legal context: “The decision was made in accordance with the applicable laws.”
- In academic writing: “In accordance with previous research, our findings suggest a similar trend.”
3. Based on
“Based on” is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something is derived from or founded upon specific information or evidence. It connects the subsequent statement directly to its source.
This expression is suitable for both formal and informal contexts and is especially handy when discussing conclusions, decisions, or opinions that stem from particular data or observations.
Usage Examples:
- In a report: “Based on the survey results, customer satisfaction has improved.”
- In a conversation: “I chose this route based on your recommendation.”
- In decision-making: “The committee approved the plan based on its feasibility.”
4. As reported by
“As reported by”- This phrase is journalistic and objective, used to attribute information to a news outlet, journalist, or media source. It’s formal and common in news articles, research papers, or reports, conveying a sense of verified information.
By replacing “According To,” it underscores the credibility of the reporting entity, making it ideal for situations where you need to cite external or third-party information. It’s particularly effective in contexts requiring transparency about the source of news or data.
Usage Examples:
- In the news: “As reported by the local newspaper, the festival was a great success.”
- In research: “As reported by Smith et al. (2020), the experiment yielded positive results.”
- In presentations: “As reported by industry analysts, market growth is expected to double.”
5. In the words of
“In the words of” – This phrase is expressive and slightly formal, used to directly quote or paraphrase a source’s exact words, often adding a narrative or conversational tone.
It’s perfect for journalistic writing, speeches, or creative contexts where you want to capture the essence of someone’s statement.
As an alternative to “According To,” it draws attention to the source’s phrasing, making it ideal for emphasizing eloquence or authority. It’s best used when the source’s wording is particularly impactful or noteworthy.
Usage Examples:
- In a speech: “In the words of Nelson Mandela, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'”
- In writing: “In the words of the CEO, ‘Innovation is the key to our success.'”
- In discussions: “In the words of my mentor, ‘Always stay curious.'”
Related Posts: 15 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” (With Examples”
6. By the account of
“By the account of” is used to attribute information to someone’s personal experience or testimony. It suggests that the information is told by a particular person.
This phrase is useful when discussing events or stories where firsthand accounts are important. It adds a layer of authenticity and personal perspective.
Usage Examples:
- In storytelling: “By the account of the witnesses, the event was unprecedented.”
- In historical context: “By the account of ancient scholars, the civilization was highly advanced.”
- In legal settings: “By the account of the defendant, he was elsewhere at the time.”
7. As Stated By
“As Stated By” is formal and precise, used to attribute a specific statement or fact to a particular source or individual. It conveys authority and clarity, making it ideal for professional or academic contexts, such as reports, articles, or legal documents.
By serving as an alternative to “According To,” it emphasizes the reliability of the source, ensuring the information is presented as credible. It’s particularly suitable when you want to highlight the exact words or position of an expert, official, or notable figure.
Usage Examples:
- In a business report: “As Stated By the CEO, the company will expand into new markets by Q3.”
- In a news article: “As Stated By the mayor, the city will invest in sustainable infrastructure next year.”
8. Following
“Following” is used to indicate that something comes after or as a result of something else. When used as an alternative to “according to,” it suggests that the subsequent information is derived from a particular source.
This phrase is concise and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It smoothly transitions the reader or listener to the referenced information.
Usage Examples:
- In instructions: “Following the guidelines, we implemented the new policy.”
- In reports: “Following the data collected, we made several improvements.”
- In conversations: “Following your advice, I updated my resume.”
9. In line with
“In line with” means in agreement or accordance with something. It suggests harmony or consistency between your statement and the referenced source.
This expression is suitable for professional and formal contexts, especially when aligning policies, opinions, or actions with established standards.
Usage Examples:
- In business: “Our strategy is in line with current market trends.”
- In policy statements: “In line with company values, we prioritize customer satisfaction.”
- In academic writing: “The findings are in line with previous research.”
10. On the authority of
“On the authority of” is a formal way to attribute information to someone who has expertise or official power. It emphasizes the credibility and reliability of the source.
This phrase is effective when the authority of the source strengthens your statement, such as citing experts, officials, or authoritative texts.
Usage Examples:
- In formal reports: “On the authority of the chief engineer, the structure is safe.”
- In legal contexts: “On the authority of the Supreme Court, the law was deemed unconstitutional.”
- In academic discussions: “On the authority of renowned scholars, the theory holds true.”
Related Posts: 15 Other Ways to Say “Join Us” (With Examples)
11. As mentioned by
“As mentioned by” – This phrase is conversational and slightly informal, used to reference a source’s statement or comment without implying a formal declaration.
It’s versatile, fitting journalistic, academic, or casual contexts where you want to attribute information to an individual or group.
As a softer alternative to “According To,” it suggests a casual or passing reference, making it ideal for situations where the source’s input is relevant but not necessarily authoritative.
Usage Examples:
- In meetings: “As Sarah mentioned earlier, we need to adjust our timeline.”
- In essays: “As mentioned by the author, symbolism plays a key role.”
- In conversations: “As mentioned by our tour guide, this site has historical significance.”
12. As Declared By
“As Declared By” is formal and authoritative, used to attribute a statement or decision to a high-ranking individual or official entity, such as a leader, organization, or government. It conveys a sense of official proclamation, making it ideal for legal, political, or corporate contexts.
As a direct alternative to “According To,” it emphasizes the source’s authority and finality, perfect for situations where you need to underscore the weight of an official statement.
Usage Examples:
- In a press release: “As Declared By the president, new trade policies will take effect next month.”
- In a corporate memo: “As Declared By the board, dividends will be distributed in December.”
13. Citing
“Citing” is used to reference or quote a source, especially in academic or formal writing. It indicates that you are drawing upon someone else’s work or statements.
This phrase is essential in contexts where proper attribution is necessary to avoid plagiarism and to support your points with credible sources.
Usage Examples:
- In academic papers: “Citing Johnson (2019), we understand the importance of social dynamics.”
- In research: “Citing recent studies, the report highlights emerging technologies.”
- In presentations: “Citing customer feedback, we made the following improvements.”
14. Referencing
“Referencing” is similar to “citing” and is used to indicate that you are mentioning or alluding to a particular source or piece of information.
This expression is appropriate in academic, professional, and formal contexts where acknowledging the origin of information adds credibility.
Usage Examples:
- In essays: “Referencing the novel’s themes, the essay explores human nature.”
- In business: “Referencing last quarter’s results, we can see growth.”
- In discussions: “Referencing your earlier point, I agree with the proposed changes.”
15. From what I’ve heard
“From what I’ve heard” is an informal way to indicate that you’re sharing information received from others. It suggests secondhand knowledge and is often used in casual conversations.
This phrase is useful when you want to share information without asserting it as an absolute fact, acknowledging that it’s based on hearsay.
Usage Examples:
- In conversation: “From what I’ve heard, the new restaurant is excellent.”
- In informal writing: “From what I’ve heard, the policy will change soon.”
- In discussions: “From what I’ve heard, the team is working on a new project.”
Conclusion
Enhancing your vocabulary with other ways to say “according to” not only enriches your communication but also allows you to convey your message more precisely and engagingly. Whether you’re aiming for formality or keeping it casual, these expressions help tailor your language to suit different contexts and audiences.
By diversifying your language, you make your interactions more dynamic and relatable. Keep exploring new ways to express yourself, and you’ll find your communication becoming more effective and impactful.
Trust Other Ways To Say to keep your conversations fresh, purposeful, and meaningful.
Related Posts:15 Other Ways to Say “I Hope” (With Examples)
Thomas Schneider is a language enthusiast and expert in synonyms, dedicated to exploring the beauty of words and their nuanced meanings. With a passion for linguistics and clear communication, Thomas helps readers enrich their vocabulary and understand the subtle art of word choice. Whether you’re a writer, student, or language lover, his insights offer practical tools to elevate your language skills.
Pingback: 15 Other Ways to Say "Means" (With Examples) - Other Ways To Say
Pingback: 15 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples) – Other Ways To Say
Pingback: 15 Other Ways to Say "So" (With Examples) - Other Ways To Say