Whether you’re writing an email, preparing a report, or having a casual conversation, the phrase “according to” is something most people use regularly. It helps reference information, opinions, research, or sources in a clear and credible way. While the phrase is perfectly correct, repeating it too often can make your writing sound dull or overly formal.
Using alternative expressions can instantly improve the flow of your communication and make your message sound more polished, natural, and engaging. Some alternatives work better in professional writing, while others fit casual conversations, storytelling, or persuasive content.
In this guide, you’ll discover 25 other ways to say “according to,” along with meanings, tones, examples, and tips on when to use each one effectively.
What Does “According to” Mean?
The phrase “according to” is used to show that information comes from a specific source, person, report, belief, or authority. It helps attribute statements or ideas to someone else rather than presenting them as your own opinion.
People commonly use it in conversations, journalism, academic writing, workplace communication, and presentations.
The tone of “according to” is usually neutral and professional. It can sound formal in business or academic contexts, but it also appears naturally in everyday speech.
When to Use It
You can use “according to” in many situations, including:
- Professional emails
- Business reports
- Academic writing
- News articles
- Casual conversations
- Speeches and presentations
Examples
- According to the manager, the project will launch next week.
- According to recent research, sleep improves productivity.
- According to my friend, the restaurant is excellent.
In formal settings, it helps establish credibility. In casual conversations, it simply shows where the information came from.
Is It Polite or Professional?
Yes, “according to” is both polite and professional. It is widely accepted in business communication, journalism, and academic writing because it clearly identifies the source of information.
However, constantly repeating the phrase may make your writing feel repetitive or stiff. Using alternatives allows you to sound more conversational, confident, and stylistically polished.
Some alternatives sound highly formal, while others are relaxed and friendly. Choosing the right one depends on your audience and situation.
25 Other Ways to Say “According to”
1. Based on
Meaning: Derived from specific information or evidence.
Tone: Professional and analytical.
Based on the latest survey, customer satisfaction has improved significantly.
This phrase works well in reports, presentations, and research-based writing.
It sounds confident and data-driven, making it ideal for workplace communication.
2. As stated by
Meaning: Mentioned or expressed by someone.
Tone: Formal and respectful.
As stated by the CEO, the company plans to expand internationally.
Use this in professional or academic contexts when referencing authority figures.
3. As reported by
Meaning: Shared or announced by a source.
Tone: Journalistic and formal.
As reported by local media, the event attracted thousands of visitors.
Perfect for news-style writing or formal updates.
4. In the words of
Meaning: Using someone’s exact or memorable expression.
Tone: Thoughtful and expressive.
In the words of Maya Angelou, “People will never forget how you made them feel.”
Best used when quoting inspiring or influential statements.
5. Per
Meaning: In agreement with or following information from someone.
Tone: Concise and professional.
Per the client’s request, the presentation was updated.
This is extremely common in business emails and corporate communication.
6. As noted by
Meaning: Pointed out or observed by someone.
Tone: Academic and professional.
As noted by the researcher, climate patterns are changing rapidly.
Useful for essays, reports, and analytical discussions.
7. As mentioned by
Meaning: Previously said or referred to by someone.
Tone: Conversational and professional.
As mentioned by Sarah, the meeting has been postponed.
This alternative sounds smoother and less repetitive in emails.
8. In accordance with
Meaning: Following rules, guidance, or information.
Tone: Formal and official.
In accordance with company policy, all employees must attend training.
Best for legal, HR, or policy-related writing.
9. Following
Meaning: Based on or after considering something.
Tone: Neutral and professional.
Following the doctor’s advice, he changed his diet.
Simple and effective for both formal and casual contexts.
10. As indicated by
Meaning: Suggested or shown by information.
Tone: Formal and analytical.
As indicated by the results, sales increased during the holiday season.
Excellent for research or data-focused communication.
11. On the authority of
Meaning: Supported or approved by an authoritative source.
Tone: Formal and authoritative.
On the authority of the finance department, the budget was approved.
Use this when emphasizing credibility or expertise.
12. As outlined by
Meaning: Explained or organized by someone.
Tone: Professional and structured.
As outlined by the instructor, the assignment must include references.
Helpful in instructional or procedural writing.
13. As described by
Meaning: Explained in detail by someone.
Tone: Neutral and descriptive.
As described by witnesses, the incident happened quickly.
Works well in storytelling and reporting.
14. As explained by
Meaning: Clarified or interpreted by someone.
Tone: Friendly and informative.
As explained by the technician, the issue was caused by outdated software.
This phrase sounds approachable and clear.
15. Per the statement of
Meaning: According to someone’s official statement.
Tone: Highly formal.
Per the statement of the board, the merger will proceed next month.
Often used in corporate or legal communication.
16. As observed by
Meaning: Noticed or identified by someone.
Tone: Academic and reflective.
As observed by historians, the event changed political history.
Ideal for thoughtful analysis and scholarly writing.
17. By the account of
Meaning: Based on someone’s version or description.
Tone: Narrative and conversational.
By the account of witnesses, the concert was unforgettable.
Useful in storytelling or interviews.
18. As cited by
Meaning: Referenced by a source.
Tone: Academic and formal.
As cited by the journal, the study included over 5,000 participants.
Best suited for research papers and scholarly articles.
19. In line with
Meaning: Consistent with something.
Tone: Professional and polished.
In line with customer feedback, the company improved its services.
A great choice for workplace communication and presentations.
20. As shared by
Meaning: Communicated or revealed by someone.
Tone: Warm and conversational.
As shared by the team leader, new opportunities are coming soon.
This sounds more personal and friendly than “according to.”
21. Per reports
Meaning: Based on reported information.
Tone: Journalistic and concise.
Per reports, the storm may reach the coast tonight.
Commonly used in media and news updates.
22. As referenced by
Meaning: Mentioned or supported through reference.
Tone: Formal and academic.
As referenced by several experts, consistency is essential for success.
Useful in professional articles and educational content.
23. As affirmed by
Meaning: Confirmed or strongly supported by someone.
Tone: Confident and authoritative.
As affirmed by the committee, the proposal meets all requirements.
Works well when emphasizing certainty or approval.
24. In the opinion of
Meaning: Based on someone’s viewpoint.
Tone: Respectful and conversational.
In the opinion of many teachers, reading improves critical thinking.
A softer way to present personal or subjective ideas.
25. As believed by
Meaning: Accepted or thought to be true by someone.
Tone: Reflective and thoughtful.
As believed by many cultures, kindness creates lasting connections.
Best for philosophical, cultural, or opinion-based discussions.
Conclusion
Using alternatives to “according to” can make your writing more dynamic, polished, and engaging. Whether you’re writing a business email, academic paper, blog post, or casual message, choosing the right expression helps improve clarity and tone. Some phrases sound formal and authoritative, while others feel warm and conversational.
By expanding your vocabulary and experimenting with these alternatives naturally, you can communicate ideas more effectively and keep your writing fresh, professional, and reader-friendly.
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