The phrase “according to” is often used to reference information from a source, but it can become repetitive if overused. Whether you’re writing an academic paper, a professional report, or simply trying to vary your language in a conversation, it’s helpful to have different ways to convey the same idea.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 alternatives to “according to,” along with examples to help you diversify your writing and speaking.
Synonyms for “According To”
- As Stated By
- As Per
- In the Words of
- In Accordance With
- As Reported By
- As Mentioned By
- In the Opinion of
- Based On
- As Explained By
- According to the View of
- As Alleged By
- Per
- As Observed By
- As Noted By
- In the Judgment of
- In the Eyes of
- On the Authority of
- In the Words of the Expert
- As Acknowledged By
- As Indicated By
1. As Stated By
Introduction: A formal way to introduce information that has been expressed by a source.
Definition: Indicates that the information comes from a particular source or authority.
Meaning: Used to introduce a statement made by someone else.
Tone: Formal and authoritative.
Example: “As stated by the report, the company’s revenue grew by 20% last year.”
Explanation: This is often used in professional or academic settings.
2. As Per
Introduction: A short, slightly more informal way of saying “according to.”
Definition: In accordance with or based on something.
Meaning: Refers to the information provided by a source, often used in professional or instructional contexts.
Tone: Neutral and concise.
Example: “As per the agreement, the project should be completed by the end of the month.”
Explanation: Commonly used in business or contractual language.
3. In the Words of
Introduction: A phrase that emphasizes the exact words or direct quote from a source.
Definition: Introduces a direct quotation from someone.
Meaning: Used when quoting someone directly, highlighting their exact phrasing.
Tone: Formal and reflective.
Example: “In the words of the CEO, ‘Our company’s success is driven by innovation and customer focus.’”
Explanation: This phrase is perfect for situations where you want to highlight a direct quote.
4. In Accordance With
Introduction: A formal way to indicate that something is in alignment with a specific source or rule.
Definition: Refers to complying with or being in agreement with a certain source or guideline.
Meaning: Used to indicate that something follows the principles or statements of a source.
Tone: Formal and legal.
Example: “In accordance with company policy, all employees must submit reports by Friday.”
Explanation: Best used for legal, procedural, or highly formal contexts.
5. As Reported By
Introduction: A way to reference information that has been reported by a credible source.
Definition: Refers to information that has been conveyed or reported by a specific source.
Meaning: Used to attribute information to a news outlet, publication, or other reporting body.
Tone: Neutral and journalistic.
Example: “As reported by the New York Times, the new law will take effect next month.”
Explanation: Common in media or journalism.
6. As Mentioned By
Introduction: A casual and versatile way to refer to information from a source.
Definition: Refers to something that has already been referred to or mentioned by someone else.
Meaning: Used to remind the listener or reader of something already stated.
Tone: Informal and conversational.
Example: “As mentioned by our supervisor, we need to complete the project by Friday.”
Explanation: This phrase is useful in everyday conversations and emails.
7. In the Opinion of
Introduction: A way to present someone’s perspective or viewpoint.
Definition: Introduces a subjective view or opinion from a source.
Meaning: Used to attribute a personal opinion to a person or group.
Tone: Formal and respectful.
Example: “In the opinion of the experts, the new policy will have a positive impact on the economy.”
Explanation: Ideal for expressing someone’s perspective or judgment.
8. Based On
Introduction: A direct, neutral way to reference the foundation of information.
Definition: Used to refer to something that has been derived from a source or piece of data.
Meaning: Indicates that the information or conclusion comes from a particular set of facts or studies.
Tone: Neutral and straightforward.
Example: “Based on the data, the sales team has exceeded their quarterly targets.”
Explanation: Best used when referring to facts, research, or studies.
9. As Explained By
Introduction: A clear way to introduce information or clarification provided by someone.
Definition: Refers to an explanation given by someone to clarify or elaborate on a topic.
Meaning: Indicates that someone has provided a detailed explanation of a subject.
Tone: Formal and educational.
Example: “As explained by the instructor, the course covers advanced topics in digital marketing.”
Explanation: This is useful in educational or technical contexts.
10. According to the View of
Introduction: A formal phrase to indicate someone’s viewpoint or perspective.
Definition: Introduces an opinion or perspective expressed by someone.
Meaning: Used to reference someone’s viewpoint or belief on a matter.
Tone: Formal and respectful.
Example: “According to the view of many scholars, the theory lacks sufficient evidence.”
Explanation: This phrase works well for academic writing or discussions involving differing opinions.
11. As Alleged By
Introduction: A phrase often used in legal or formal contexts to indicate something claimed or stated by someone.
Definition: Used to refer to statements or claims made, especially when there is uncertainty.
Meaning: Suggests that the information has been claimed but may not be verified.
Tone: Legal or investigative.
Example: “As alleged by the whistleblower, the company engaged in illegal practices.”
Explanation: Ideal for situations where information is being presented as a claim or accusation.
12. Per
Introduction: A brief and concise way to indicate the source of information.
Definition: In accordance with or according to.
Meaning: A shorthand term to refer to instructions, guidelines, or sources.
Tone: Formal and concise.
Example: “Per the company guidelines, all employees must submit their reports by the end of the week.”
Explanation: Commonly used in business, legal, and formal contexts.
13. As Observed By
Introduction: Used when referring to something that has been noted or observed by someone.
Definition: Refers to something that someone has noted or remarked on.
Meaning: Indicates an observation or statement made by someone based on their findings.
Tone: Formal and academic.
Example: “As observed by the researcher, the effects of the drug were noticeable after two weeks.”
Explanation: This phrase is perfect for academic or scientific discussions.
14. As Noted By
Introduction: A way to refer to something that someone has mentioned or recorded.
Definition: Used to reference a point that has been noted or acknowledged by a person.
Meaning: Similar to “as observed by,” but more focused on something that has been written or recorded.
Tone: Neutral and formal.
Example: “As noted by the author, the book covers several complex psychological theories.”
Explanation: Great for academic or written discussions.
15. In the Judgment of
Introduction: A phrase used to introduce someone’s assessment or decision.
Definition: Refers to the conclusion or decision made by someone based on their judgment.
Meaning: Indicates that the information or decision comes from someone’s evaluation.
Tone: Formal and authoritative.
Example: “In the judgment of the board, the candidate is not suitable for the role.”
Explanation: Often used in legal, business, or evaluative contexts.
16. In the Eyes of
Introduction: A way to express someone’s personal or societal viewpoint.
Definition: Refers to how someone views or perceives a situation.
Meaning: Indicates the perspective of a person or group.
Tone: Neutral to informal.
Example: “In the eyes of the community, the mayor has been an excellent leader.”
Explanation: Suitable for personal or societal viewpoints.
17. On the Authority of
Introduction: A formal way to reference information based on someone’s expertise or credentials.
Definition: Used when citing someone who has the authority or expertise to provide information.
Meaning: Indicates that the information is derived from someone with recognized authority.
Tone: Formal and respectful.
Example: “On the authority of the health department, all food establishments must adhere to new safety standards.”
Explanation: Appropriate for referencing experts, authorities, or official sources.
18. In the Words of the Expert
Introduction: A phrase used to introduce information from a knowledgeable or authoritative source.
Definition: Introduces a direct quote or information from an expert.
Meaning: Highlights the expertise of the source being cited.
Tone: Respectful and authoritative.
Example: “In the words of the expert, ‘Technology will continue to revolutionize healthcare.’”
Explanation: Best used when quoting specialists or professionals in a field.
19. As Acknowledged By
Introduction: A phrase used to refer to something that has been recognized or admitted by someone.
Definition: Refers to something that someone has acknowledged or admitted.
Meaning: Indicates recognition or confirmation from a particular source.
Tone: Formal and respectful.
Example: “As acknowledged by the team leader, the project is ahead of schedule.”
Explanation: Suitable for professional or formal contexts.
20. As Indicated By
Introduction: A way to refer to information that has been pointed out or suggested by someone.
Definition: Used to introduce a source that has suggested or pointed out something.
Meaning: Indicates that the information has been highlighted or pointed out by a source.
Tone: Formal and neutral.
Example: “As indicated by the study, regular exercise can improve mental health.”
Explanation: Works well when referring to research or studies.
Conclusion
Switching up the phrase “according to” can help diversify your writing and make it sound more sophisticated and engaging.
Whether you’re writing formally or informally, the alternatives listed here offer various ways to reference sources or opinions. Use them to make your communication more dynamic and varied.
FAQs
1. Can these alternatives be used interchangeably with “according to”?
Yes, but depending on the context, some phrases might sound more formal or informal. Choose the one that best fits the tone of your writing or speech.
2. Are these alternatives appropriate for both professional and casual contexts?
Yes, most of these alternatives work in both professional and casual contexts, though some (like “on the authority of”) are more formal and suited to legal or official discussions.
3. Which alternative is best for quoting a person’s direct words?
The phrases “in the words of” or “as stated by” are ideal for introducing a direct quote from someone.
Numan Hassan is a passionate educator at EnglishVisions, dedicated to helping students master English with confidence. His dynamic teaching approach turns language learning into an engaging and rewarding experience. With a deep understanding of communication skills, he empowers learners to excel in both spoken and written English.
