20 Other Ways to Say “According To”
“According to” is a commonly used phrase that attributes information, opinions, or statements to a particular source. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, a news article, or just sharing information in a conversation, this phrase helps indicate where the information originates. For instance, when someone says, “According to the weather report, it will rain tomorrow,” they are pointing out that this information is based on a trusted source.
However, language offers a wide range of expressions that can serve the same function as “according to,” each bringing a slightly different nuance or tone depending on the formality, authority, or context. This article explores a list of alternative phrases that can be used in place of “according to,” offering a more refined and versatile way to cite sources or present viewpoints.
Other Ways to Say “According To”
1. As stated by
Example: “As stated by the manager, all employees must attend the training session.”
Meaning: This phrase refers directly to what someone has said, highlighting the exact statement made.
Usage: Ideal for formal and professional communication where direct quotation or acknowledgment is important.
2. As reported by
Example: “As reported by local news outlets, the storm caused widespread power outages.”
Meaning: Used to attribute information to a media or reporting source, indicating that the information has been broadcast or published.
Usage: Common in journalism and media reporting where updates and facts are shared from credible outlets.
3. As per
Example: “As per company policy, refunds are not available without a receipt.”
Meaning: A formal phrase that implies compliance with a rule, instruction, or document.
Usage: Frequently seen in legal, corporate, or administrative contexts.
4. As mentioned by
Example: “As mentioned by the professor, the exam will cover the entire syllabus.”
Meaning: Refers back to a previously stated comment or piece of information.
Usage: Useful when reiterating someone’s words that were already brought up in the conversation or text.
5. Based on
Example: “Based on the latest survey, most customers prefer online services.”
Meaning: Suggests that a conclusion or statement is derived from specific data, evidence, or source.
Usage: Suitable for analytical writing, academic reporting, or structured opinions.
6. On the authority of
Example: “On the authority of several legal experts, the new law may be unconstitutional.”
Meaning: Emphasizes trust in the credibility or expertise of the source being cited.
Usage: Common when referencing authoritative or professional opinions.
7. As indicated by
Example: “As indicated by recent research, sleep quality affects overall health.”
Meaning: Points out evidence or implications made by data or research.
Usage: Often used in technical writing, academic papers, or reports.
8. According to the claims of
Example: “According to the claims of the manufacturer, this device can last ten years.”
Meaning: Cites the promotional or assertive statement made by someone, often used when the claim might need scrutiny.
Usage: Useful in reviews, critiques, or when discussing potentially biased sources.
9. As suggested by
Example: “As suggested by the latest trends, remote work is here to stay.”
Meaning: Indicates a viewpoint or idea inferred from data or expert analysis.
Usage: Effective for softer claims or when proposing an idea based on indirect observation.
10. Citing
Example: “Citing a recent study, the article concludes that climate change is accelerating.”
Meaning: Refers to the act of referencing a source or document as evidence.
Usage: Formal writing, especially in academic or scientific contexts.
11. In the words of
Example: “In the words of the director, ‘This project is our top priority.’”
Meaning: Directly quotes or paraphrases what someone has said, often emphasizing their personal wording.
Usage: Suitable when you want to highlight the speaker’s exact phrasing or bring personality into a citation.
12. As asserted by
Example: “As asserted by the witness, the suspect fled the scene at 9 p.m.”
Meaning: Conveys that someone firmly made a claim or statement.
Usage: Appropriate in legal, journalistic, or formal narrative contexts where certainty or emphasis is key.
13. In line with
Example: “In line with recent policies, all employees must complete cybersecurity training.”
Meaning: Suggests alignment or agreement with a given rule, statement, or directive.
Usage: Often used in policy-related discussions or formal updates.
14. As revealed by
Example: “As revealed by the investigation, the system had several vulnerabilities.”
Meaning: Indicates that the information was uncovered or brought to light by someone or something.
Usage: Useful in reports, journalism, or when highlighting findings.
15. As outlined in
Example: “As outlined in the agreement, both parties are responsible for data security.”
Meaning: Refers to information that has been structured or detailed in a document or source.
Usage: Formal documents, contracts, or procedural writing.
16. In the opinion of
Example: “In the opinion of many critics, the sequel was better than the original.”
Meaning: States a subjective viewpoint attributed to a person or group.
Usage: Ideal when conveying personal or collective opinions.
17. From the perspective of
Example: “From the perspective of a first-time voter, the process can be overwhelming.”
Meaning: Indicates the viewpoint or experience of the source being cited.
Usage: Common in reflective, narrative, or empathetic writing.
18. As highlighted by
Example: “As highlighted by the health department, vaccination rates are improving.”
Meaning: Emphasizes that a point was brought to attention by the cited source.
Usage: Frequently used in reports, summaries, or presentations.
19. As documented in
Example: “As documented in the final report, safety violations were noted repeatedly.”
Meaning: Points to a written or recorded account that supports the statement.
Usage: Preferred in formal, legal, or academic environments.
20. As claimed by
Example: “As claimed by the spokesperson, the company is not at fault.”
Meaning: Expresses that someone has made a statement, often implying potential bias or uncertainty.
Usage: Useful when reporting disputed or promotional assertions.
When to Use Different “According To” Alternatives
In Professional or Business Settings
When writing or speaking in a formal workplace context, it’s often more effective to use structured and polished alternatives like “as outlined in”, “as stated by”, or “as per” to convey clarity, authority, and formality in your communication.
In Academic or Research Writing
In academic contexts, precision and credibility are essential, so phrases such as “as documented in”, “as indicated by”, or “citing” are particularly useful when referencing research, studies, or scholarly articles to back up claims or conclusions.
In Journalism and Media
For reporting or journalistic writing, words like “as reported by”, “as revealed by”, and “according to the claims of” allow writers to present facts, allegations, or perspectives while attributing them clearly to external sources.
Conclusion
While “according to” is a functional and widely accepted phrase, the English language provides many nuanced alternatives that can help you tailor your message for different tones, audiences, and levels of formality. Whether you’re drafting a professional report, composing an academic paper, or writing an article for public consumption, the phrases provided above offer versatile and effective options to replace or enhance your use of “according to.”
For those looking to further diversify their language, tools like Thesaurus.com can serve as helpful resources for finding additional expressions and synonyms suited to your specific writing needs.
FAQs
What does “according to” mean?
“According to” means that the following information originates from or is attributed to a specific source, such as a person, document, or authority.
Is “according to” considered formal or informal?
“According to” is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings, but some alternatives may be more appropriate depending on the context.
Can I use “based on” instead of “according to”?
Yes, “based on” is often interchangeable with “according to,” particularly when the source is data or research rather than a person or direct quote.
What’s the difference between ‘as per’ and ‘according to’?
“As per” is more commonly used in formal or legal writing and implies adherence to a rule or guideline, whereas “according to” is broader and applies to information, claims, or opinions.
