When writing or speaking, varying your expressions can make your communication sound more polished and engaging. The phrase “according to” is commonly used to reference a source of information, but there are many alternative ways to convey the same meaning. This article will provide you with 30 alternatives to “according to” and offer examples to help you express yourself more effectively in different contexts.
What Does “According To” Mean?
“According to” is used to introduce information or quotes from a source, such as a person, document, or study. It helps attribute information, ensuring clarity and giving credit to the source.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “According To”?
Politeness: Yes, “according to” is polite and neutral, making it an appropriate expression in both formal and informal settings.
Professionalism: It is widely used in professional and academic writing when citing a source, making it a formal and acceptable way to attribute information.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Clarity: It helps clarify where the information is coming from.
- Universality: It’s a versatile expression used across different contexts, both professional and casual.
- Neutral Tone: It doesn’t imply any judgment on the source’s reliability or content.
Disadvantages:
- Repetitiveness: Using it too often can sound monotonous or dry.
- Limited Context: It’s not always suitable for situations that require a more conversational or dynamic tone.
Synonyms For “According To”
- As Stated By
- As Per
- In the Words of
- Based On
- As Reported By
- In Accordance With
- As Observed By
- According to the Findings of
- As Indicated By
- On the Authority of
- In Light of
- As Explained By
- From the Perspective of
- As Noted By
- According to the Data
- As Demonstrated By
- As Suggested By
- As Communicated By
- According to Experts
- As Mentioned By
- In Reference To
- On the Basis of
- As Revealed By
- As Documented By
- From the Viewpoint of
- Consistent With
- Citing
- According to Research
- Referring To
- Drawing From
1. As Stated By
Meaning: Referring to someone’s statement or declaration.
Definition: This phrase introduces a direct reference to a statement made by someone.
Explanation: It’s often used in formal contexts when you want to quote a specific declaration.
Scenario Example: “As stated by the CEO, the company plans to expand internationally.”
Best Use: Ideal in professional or formal contexts where a specific statement is being referenced.
Tone: Formal, authoritative.
2. As Per
Meaning: Based on or in accordance with.
Definition: A commonly used alternative in professional settings, often found in emails or contracts.
Explanation: “As per” is a slightly more formal version of “according to” and is typically used in business communication.
Scenario Example: “As per the latest report, the project is on track for completion next month.”
Best Use: Business communication or formal emails.
Tone: Professional, neutral.
3. In the Words of
Meaning: Quoting or referring to someone’s exact words.
Definition: This phrase is used when you want to directly quote someone or paraphrase their specific statement.
Explanation: It is commonly used when emphasizing a quote from a notable source.
Scenario Example: “In the words of Albert Einstein, ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge.’”
Best Use: When quoting or referencing someone’s exact statement.
Tone: Respectful, reflective.
4. Based On
Meaning: Drawing information or conclusions from a source.
Definition: It suggests that the information or statement is derived from a specific source or study.
Explanation: This phrase is flexible and works in both formal and informal contexts.
Scenario Example: “Based on the survey results, we can conclude that customer satisfaction has improved.”
Best Use: Suitable for research, analysis, or discussing conclusions.
Tone: Neutral, factual.
5. As Reported By
Meaning: Referring to the information presented in a report or news source.
Definition: Often used to indicate that the information comes from a report or news outlet.
Explanation: This is commonly used when referencing formal documents, studies, or news stories.
Scenario Example: “As reported by the local newspaper, the event drew thousands of visitors.”
Best Use: When citing news articles or reports.
Tone: Formal, objective.
6. In Accordance With
Meaning: Following or complying with the rules, regulations, or instructions.
Definition: A more formal way of saying “according to,” often used in legal or contractual settings.
Explanation: It’s often used in legal, business, or policy-related writing to denote adherence to guidelines or standards.
Scenario Example: “In accordance with company policy, employees are required to submit their reports by Friday.”
Best Use: Legal, formal contexts.
Tone: Formal, authoritative.
7. As Observed By
Meaning: Referring to something someone has noticed or remarked upon.
Definition: Used to attribute a comment or observation to someone.
Explanation: This expression is often used to acknowledge someone’s observation, particularly in academic or analytical writing.
Scenario Example: “As observed by the researcher, the participants showed a marked improvement in their performance.”
Best Use: Academic or analytical discussions.
Tone: Analytical, formal.
8. According To the Findings of
Meaning: Referring to research results or study conclusions.
Definition: This phrase specifically refers to data or conclusions from a study or survey.
Explanation: It’s often used in academic writing, scientific reports, and research papers.
Scenario Example: “According to the findings of the recent study, there is a strong correlation between sleep and productivity.”
Best Use: Research papers, scientific writing.
Tone: Formal, academic.
9. As Indicated By
Meaning: Signifying that something has been pointed out or highlighted by a source.
Definition: Used when referencing information that has been made clear or indicated by a person or source.
Explanation: It’s helpful for referencing evidence or statements made in reports, presentations, or studies.
Scenario Example: “As indicated by the chart, there was a significant drop in sales last quarter.”
Best Use: Reports, presentations, or statistical analysis.
Tone: Neutral, factual.
10. On the Authority of
Meaning: Citing a person or source with expertise or credibility.
Definition: Refers to a source that is deemed authoritative or expert in a particular area.
Explanation: It implies that the information comes from a credible source.
Scenario Example: “On the authority of the medical board, the vaccine is proven to be safe for use.”
Best Use: Academic, legal, or professional contexts where credibility matters.
Tone: Formal, authoritative.
11. In Light of
Meaning: Considering or taking into account.
Definition: This phrase can also be used to introduce information based on a given source or context.
Explanation: It emphasizes that the following information is derived from an evaluation or consideration of a specific source.
Scenario Example: “In light of recent developments, we’ve decided to delay the product launch.”
Best Use: When evaluating new or emerging information.
Tone: Reflective, neutral.
12. As Explained By
Meaning: Referencing someone’s explanation or clarification.
Definition: It indicates that the information has been clarified or explained by a specific person.
Explanation: This phrase is useful when explaining complex concepts or referencing someone’s description of an event.
Scenario Example: “As explained by the instructor, the experiment must be conducted in three phases.”
Best Use: Teaching, tutorials, or presentations.
Tone: Clarifying, formal.
13. From the Perspective of
Meaning: Indicating the viewpoint or opinion of a person or group.
Definition: Used to introduce information from a specific person’s or group’s point of view.
Explanation: This phrase helps to introduce subjective interpretations or opinions based on a particular perspective.
Scenario Example: “From the perspective of the marketing team, the new campaign has been a success.”
Best Use: Discussions or analysis where viewpoint is emphasized.
Tone: Analytical, subjective.
14. As Noted By
Meaning: Acknowledging someone’s specific mention or observation.
Definition: A formal way of referencing someone’s note or acknowledgment.
Explanation: This phrase is useful when pointing out something that has been explicitly stated by a reliable source.
Scenario Example: “As noted by the historian, the event marked a turning point in world history.”
Best Use: Historical or factual writing.
Tone: Formal, neutral.
15. According to the Data
Meaning: Referring to information obtained from data analysis or statistics.
Definition: This phrase is used when citing numerical information or data-driven insights.
Explanation: It’s commonly used in research, scientific writing, or business reports.
Scenario Example: “Sales have increased by 20% according to the data collected last quarter.”
Best Use: Ideal for reports, analytics, or research discussions.
Tone: Formal, factual.
16. As Demonstrated By
Meaning: Indicating that something has been shown or proven by a source.
Definition: This phrase highlights evidence or results that demonstrate a fact.
Explanation: It’s useful in scientific or academic writing when referencing research outcomes.
Scenario Example: “The experiment was successful, as demonstrated by the positive results.”
Best Use: Academic, scientific, or analytical contexts.
Tone: Formal, factual.
17. As Suggested By
Meaning: Referring to a recommendation or idea presented by someone.
Definition: It implies that the following information is a proposal or idea from a source.
Explanation: This phrase is often used to introduce advice or suggestions from an expert.
Scenario Example: “We implemented the changes as suggested by the consultant.”
Best Use: Professional and academic discussions where suggestions are cited.
Tone: Neutral, respectful.
18. As Communicated By
Meaning: Referring to information shared by someone.
Definition: This phrase indicates that the following information was directly communicated by a specific person or group.
Explanation: It’s formal and works well in professional communication.
Scenario Example: “The new policies were introduced as communicated by the HR department.”
Best Use: Business communication or formal discussions.
Tone: Formal, respectful.
19. According to Experts
Meaning: Referring to insights or opinions from specialists in a particular field.
Definition: This phrase emphasizes that the information is based on expert analysis.
Explanation: It adds credibility and authority to the statement.
Scenario Example: “According to experts, regular exercise can improve mental health.”
Best Use: Scientific or professional writing.
Tone: Formal, authoritative.
20. As Mentioned By
Meaning: Citing information that someone has previously mentioned.
Definition: It indicates that the following information was brought up in a prior discussion or statement.
Explanation: This phrase helps to maintain context and continuity.
Scenario Example: “The proposal, as mentioned by the manager, is under review.”
Best Use: Professional conversations or formal reports.
Tone: Neutral, respectful.
21. In Reference To
Meaning: Referring directly to a source or previous statement.
Definition: This phrase is used to make a direct connection to a source of information.
Explanation: It helps clarify what is being referred to in the conversation.
Scenario Example: “In reference to the meeting, the project deadline has been extended.”
Best Use: Formal writing or structured communication.
Tone: Formal, neutral.
22. On the Basis of
Meaning: Indicating that something is founded upon information or reasoning.
Definition: This phrase emphasizes that conclusions are drawn from specific information.
Explanation: It adds a logical structure to arguments or conclusions.
Scenario Example: “Decisions were made on the basis of the research findings.”
Best Use: Academic, legal, or professional writing.
Tone: Formal, objective.
23. As Revealed By
Meaning: Indicating information that has been disclosed or uncovered by a source.
Definition: This phrase suggests that new or surprising information has been made known.
Explanation: It’s ideal for referencing reports or studies that uncover new insights.
Scenario Example: “The study, as revealed by recent data, shows a growing trend.”
Best Use: Research and journalism.
Tone: Informative, factual.
24. As Documented By
Meaning: Referring to written records or reports.
Definition: This phrase emphasizes the existence of documented proof or evidence.
Explanation: It’s effective for formal and research-based writing.
Scenario Example: “As documented by the annual report, profits have significantly increased.”
Best Use: Academic, scientific, or business documentation.
Tone: Formal, factual.
25. From the Viewpoint of
Meaning: Introducing information from a particular perspective.
Definition: This phrase is used to present opinions or interpretations.
Explanation: It’s useful for acknowledging subjective opinions or perspectives.
Scenario Example: “From the viewpoint of the marketing team, the strategy is effective.”
Best Use: Analytical discussions or debates.
Tone: Neutral, reflective.
26. Consistent With
Meaning: Referring to something that aligns with existing information or data.
Definition: This phrase is used to show agreement between information sources.
Explanation: It highlights alignment with past findings or established facts.
Scenario Example: “The results are consistent with previous research.”
Best Use: Research or academic writing.
Tone: Formal, objective.
27. Citing
Meaning: Directly quoting or referring to a source.
Definition: It’s a concise way to introduce a reference.
Explanation: Ideal for academic writing or professional reports.
Scenario Example: “Citing recent studies, the report recommends a new strategy.”
Best Use: Academic, formal contexts.
Tone: Concise, formal.
28. According to Research
Meaning: Referring specifically to findings from research studies.
Definition: This phrase establishes that information is derived from credible research.
Explanation: It adds authority and weight to factual statements.
Scenario Example: “According to research, meditation can reduce stress.”
Best Use: Academic, scientific discussions.
Tone: Formal, authoritative.
29. Referring To
Meaning: Introducing information that relates to a previous topic or source.
Definition: It helps maintain continuity and connection between ideas.
Explanation: This phrase is commonly used in professional or academic writing.
Scenario Example: “Referring to the previous study, the results remain consistent.”
Best Use: Essays, reports, or presentations.
Tone: Neutral, formal.
30. Drawing From
Meaning: Using information or experience from a particular source.
Definition: It indicates that the conclusion or statement is based on prior knowledge or evidence.
Explanation: Useful in academic writing, storytelling, or professional communication.
Scenario Example: “Drawing from his extensive experience, the expert shared valuable insights.”
Best Use: Analytical or reflective discussions.
Tone: Thoughtful, professional.
Conclusion
Using alternatives to “according to” can enhance the clarity, variety, and depth of your writing. Whether you’re drafting an academic paper, writing a professional report, or engaging in a casual conversation, these 30 alternatives provide flexibility and sophistication to your language.
Grace Marie is a skilled grammar expert at Grammar Apex, dedicated to helping writers of all levels refine their language skills. With a passion for clarity and precision, she offers insightful tips and easy-to-understand explanations to make even the trickiest grammar rules simple. Whether you’re crafting professional documents, academic essays, or everyday writing.