The phrase “according to” is a common way to attribute information to a source, but overuse can make writing sound repetitive and uninspired. Expanding your repertoire of alternative phrases not only enhances the clarity and sophistication of your writing but also allows you to convey nuances in meaning and context.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to various ways to replace “according to,” offering definitions, examples, usage rules, and practice exercises to help you diversify your language skills. Whether you’re a student, a professional writer, or simply someone looking to improve their English, mastering these alternatives will significantly enrich your communication.
This guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to express attribution with precision and style. By exploring a wide range of synonyms and related expressions, you’ll be able to tailor your writing to suit different audiences and purposes, making your message more engaging and impactful.
Let’s dive into the world of versatile language and discover the many ways to say “according to.”
Table of Contents
- Definition of “According To”
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories of Alternatives
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of “According To”
“According to” is a prepositional phrase used to indicate the source of information. It signifies that a statement or idea is based on or derived from a particular person, document, or authority.
The phrase introduces the source and attributes the subsequent information to it.
Classification: Prepositional Phrase
Function: Attribution of Information
Contexts: Formal writing, informal conversation, academic papers, news reports, etc.
It ensures clarity and credibility by explicitly stating where the information originates. While effective, its frequent repetition can make writing monotonous.
Therefore, understanding and utilizing alternative phrases is essential for effective communication.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure of “according to” is relatively simple:
According to + [Source] + [Statement/Information]
For example:
According to the report, sales have increased.
The source can be a person, a document, an organization, or any other identifiable entity. The statement or information is the content that is being attributed to that source.
Alternatives often follow similar structural patterns, but they may involve different grammatical structures, such as using reporting verbs or noun phrases. For example, instead of “According to the study,” one might say “The study indicates that…” or “The study suggests…”
Understanding this basic structure helps in identifying and applying appropriate alternatives, ensuring that the attribution remains clear and accurate. Variations in sentence structure can also improve the flow and readability of your writing.
Types and Categories of Alternatives
Alternatives to “according to” can be categorized based on formality, neutrality, and the grammatical structure they employ. Here’s a breakdown of different types:
Formal Alternatives
These alternatives are suitable for academic papers, official reports, and other formal contexts. They often convey a sense of authority and precision.
Examples include: as stated by, as indicated by, pursuant to, in accordance with, in compliance with, with reference to.
Informal Alternatives
These are appropriate for casual conversations, personal emails, and less formal writing. They tend to be more conversational and less rigid.
Examples include: if you ask me, from what I hear, word is that, they say, apparently.
Neutral Alternatives
These alternatives are versatile and can be used in a wide range of contexts, providing a balance between formality and informality.
Examples include: based on, according to, in the view of, as reported by, as shown by.
Reporting Verbs
Reporting verbs are verbs that introduce reported speech or ideas. They are a powerful way to attribute information to a source while also conveying the speaker’s attitude or interpretation.
Examples include: states, asserts, claims, suggests, indicates, reveals, notes, observes, finds, concludes.
Using Nouns
Using nouns related to source information can provide a concise and elegant way to attribute information.
Examples include: the report states, the study indicates, the research suggests, the author notes.
Examples
The following tables provide a variety of examples for each category of alternatives, demonstrating their usage in different contexts.
Formal Examples
This table presents formal alternatives to “according to,” suitable for academic papers, official reports, and professional communications. These phrases add a layer of sophistication and precision to your writing.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| As stated by | As stated by the CEO, the company expects significant growth this year. |
| As indicated by | As indicated by the data, there is a clear correlation between exercise and mental health. |
| Pursuant to | Pursuant to the agreement, all parties must adhere to the outlined terms. |
| In accordance with | In accordance with the law, the building must meet all safety standards. |
| In compliance with | In compliance with regulations, the company has implemented new environmental policies. |
| With reference to | With reference to your letter, we have processed your refund request. |
| Based on the premise of | Based on the premise of sustainable development, the project aims to minimize environmental impact. |
| In light of | In light of recent events, the conference has been postponed. |
| By virtue of | By virtue of his position, he has the authority to make decisions. |
| In view of | In view of the evidence presented, the jury reached a verdict. |
| On the basis of | On the basis of the survey results, we will adjust our marketing strategy. |
| Following | Following the guidelines, the team completed the project successfully. |
| As per | As per your request, the documents have been sent. |
| Considering | Considering the circumstances, the judge made a lenient decision. |
| Given | Given the resources available, the project is progressing well. |
| In consideration of | In consideration of the applicant’s experience, she was offered the position. |
| Taking into account | Taking into account all factors, the committee made its recommendation. |
| By reason of | By reason of his expertise, he was appointed as the lead consultant. |
| Consequent to | Consequent to the storm, many roads were closed. |
| Subsequent to | Subsequent to the investigation, the company implemented new safety protocols. |
| In the context of | In the context of economic downturn, businesses are seeking innovative solutions. |
| In the framework of | In the framework of international law, the case is being reviewed. |
| Under the auspices of | Under the auspices of the UN, the peace talks are being facilitated. |
| Pursuant to the provisions of | Pursuant to the provisions of the contract, the agreement is binding. |
| Based on the tenets of | Based on the tenets of democracy, freedom of speech is protected. |
| In line with | In line with company policy, employees are required to attend training sessions. |
Informal Examples
This table presents informal alternatives to “according to,” suitable for casual conversations, personal emails, and less formal writing. These phrases convey a relaxed and conversational tone.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| If you ask me | If you ask me, that movie was way too long. |
| From what I hear | From what I hear, the new restaurant is amazing. |
| Word is that | Word is that they’re planning to expand the office. |
| They say | They say it’s going to rain all weekend. |
| Apparently | Apparently, the concert was canceled due to the weather. |
| I heard that | I heard that the boss is retiring next year. |
| So I’ve been told | So I’ve been told, the new software update is a game-changer. |
| Rumor has it | Rumor has it that they’re merging with another company. |
| I’ve been told | I’ve been told that this is the best coffee in town. |
| From the grapevine | From the grapevine, I hear they’re restructuring the department. |
| Someone told me | Someone told me that the event has been postponed. |
| I gather that | I gather that the project is behind schedule. |
| I understand that | I understand that you’re not happy with the results. |
| People are saying | People are saying that the new manager is very strict. |
| The buzz is | The buzz is that they’re launching a new product soon. |
| Gossip has it | Gossip has it that two colleagues are dating. |
| I’m hearing | I’m hearing good things about the new intern. |
| Just saying | Just saying, maybe we should consider a different approach. |
| I’m getting the sense that | I’m getting the sense that the team is feeling overwhelmed. |
| Folks say | Folks say this is the place to be on a Friday night. |
| The talk is | The talk is that the company is up for sale. |
| According to sources | According to sources, the deal is almost finalized. |
| Off the record | Off the record, the CEO is planning to step down. |
| Between you and me | Between you and me, I think he’s going to get promoted. |
| Confidentially | Confidentially, the company is facing financial difficulties. |
| Privately | Privately, I believe we need to make some changes. |
Neutral Examples
This table presents neutral alternatives to “according to,” suitable for a wide range of contexts. These phrases provide a balance between formality and informality, making them versatile for various writing styles.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Based on | Based on the evidence, the suspect was arrested. |
| In the view of | In the view of the experts, the project is feasible. |
| As reported by | As reported by the media, the event was a success. |
| As shown by | As shown by the graph, sales have increased significantly. |
| Following | Following the instructions, I assembled the furniture. |
| According to | According to the weather forecast, it will be sunny tomorrow. |
| From | From the data collected, we can draw several conclusions. |
| In | In their opinion, the policy needs revision. |
| On the basis of | On the basis of the survey, we will implement new strategies. |
| Referencing | Referencing the previous study, the researchers expanded their investigation. |
| With reference to | With reference to your email, I have attached the requested documents. |
| Drawing from | Drawing from various sources, the author presented a comprehensive analysis. |
| Consistent with | The findings are consistent with previous research. |
| In line with | The project is progressing in line with the initial plan. |
| Reflecting | The decision reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability. |
| Indicating | The results are indicating a positive trend in the market. |
| Mirroring | The new policy is mirroring successful strategies from other companies. |
| As evidenced by | As evidenced by the statistics, the program has been effective. |
| As revealed by | As revealed by the investigation, there were several discrepancies. |
| Considering | Considering the circumstances, the decision was justified. |
| Given | Given the available resources, the team performed exceptionally well. |
| Taking into account | Taking into account all factors, the committee reached a consensus. |
| Highlighting | Highlighting the key issues, the report provided actionable recommendations. |
| Emphasizing | Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, the manager motivated the staff. |
| Noting | Noting the challenges, the team developed innovative solutions. |
| Stressing | Stressing the need for improvement, the consultant offered valuable advice. |
Reporting Verbs Examples
This table presents examples of using reporting verbs as alternatives to “according to.” Reporting verbs attribute information to a source while also conveying the speaker’s attitude or interpretation.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| States | The report states that unemployment has decreased. |
| Asserts | The author asserts that climate change is a significant threat. |
| Claims | The company claims that its product is the best on the market. |
| Suggests | The study suggests that regular exercise improves cognitive function. |
| Indicates | The data indicates that the economy is recovering. |
| Reveals | The investigation reveals that there were accounting irregularities. |
| Notes | The researcher notes that further study is needed. |
| Observes | The analyst observes that consumer confidence is rising. |
| Finds | The research finds that early intervention is crucial. |
| Concludes | The committee concludes that the project should proceed. |
| Argues | The economist argues that tax cuts will stimulate growth. |
| Believes | The expert believes that technology will transform education. |
| Contends | The lawyer contends that the evidence is inadmissible. |
| Maintains | The politician maintains that his policies are effective. |
| Posits | The theorist posits that society is constantly evolving. |
| Hypothesizes | The scientist hypothesizes that the new drug will cure the disease. |
| Proposes | The architect proposes a new design for the building. |
| Assumes | The manager assumes that the team will meet the deadline. |
| Estimates | The analyst estimates that the company will double its profits. |
| Predicts | The forecaster predicts that there will be a severe storm. |
| Declares | The president declares that the country is at peace. |
| Announces | The CEO announces that the company will be launching a new product. |
| Emphasizes | The speaker emphasizes the importance of education. |
| Highlights | The report highlights the key issues facing the industry. |
| Underscores | The professor underscores the significance of critical thinking. |
| Points out | The author points out the flaws in the argument. |
Nouns Examples
This table presents examples of using nouns related to source information as alternatives to “according to.” This approach provides a concise and elegant way to attribute information.
| Alternative | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| The report states | The report states that the economy is improving. |
| The study indicates | The study indicates a correlation between diet and health. |
| The research suggests | The research suggests that early intervention is effective. |
| The author notes | The author notes the importance of critical thinking. |
| The survey reveals | The survey reveals that most people are satisfied with the service. |
| The data shows | The data shows a significant increase in sales. |
| The analysis finds | The analysis finds that the project is on track. |
| The evidence suggests | The evidence suggests that the suspect is guilty. |
| The investigation reveals | The investigation reveals several discrepancies. |
| The findings indicate | The findings indicate that the treatment is effective. |
| The conclusion is | The conclusion is that further research is needed. |
| The assessment shows | The assessment shows that the students are progressing well. |
| The review suggests | The review suggests that the book is worth reading. |
| The forecast predicts | The forecast predicts that it will rain tomorrow. |
| The estimate is | The estimate is that the project will cost $1 million. |
| The prediction is | The prediction is that the economy will grow next year. |
| The statement says | The statement says that the company is committed to sustainability. |
| The announcement indicates | The announcement indicates that there will be changes in management. |
| The memorandum states | The memorandum states the new procedures for expense reports. |
| The press release announces | The press release announces the launch of a new product line. |
| The directive outlines | The directive outlines the steps to be taken in case of an emergency. |
| The legislation mandates | The legislation mandates that all buildings must be accessible to people with disabilities. |
| The regulation stipulates | The regulation stipulates that all food products must be labeled with nutritional information. |
| The contract specifies | The contract specifies the terms of the agreement between the two parties. |
| The policy dictates | The policy dictates that employees must adhere to the dress code. |
| The manual describes | The manual describes the procedures for operating the machinery. |
Usage Rules
When using alternatives to “according to,” it’s important to adhere to certain usage rules to ensure clarity and accuracy:
- Maintain Clarity: Ensure that the source of information is clearly identified.
- Context Appropriateness: Choose alternatives that are appropriate for the context (formal, informal, neutral).
- Grammatical Accuracy: Use correct grammar and sentence structure.
- Avoid Ambiguity: Ensure that the meaning is clear and unambiguous.
- Consistency: Maintain consistency in your writing style and tone.
For example, in formal writing, avoid using informal phrases like “word is that.” Instead, opt for more formal alternatives such as “as stated by” or “as indicated by.”
When using reporting verbs, ensure that the verb tense is appropriate for the context. For example, use the present tense for current information and the past tense for past events.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “according to”:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Based from the report, sales increased. | Based on the report, sales increased. | The correct preposition is “on,” not “from.” |
| As state by the expert… | As stated by the expert… | The correct form of the verb is “stated.” |
| The study suggest to… | The study suggests that… | The reporting verb “suggests” should be followed by “that.” |
| In compliance of the law… | In compliance with the law… | The correct preposition is “with,” not “of.” |
| Word is they are… | Word is that they are… | The phrase “word is” should be followed by “that.” |
| According to me, it is… | In my opinion, it is… | “According to” should refer to an external, verifiable source, not personal belief. |
| From I hear, the food… | From what I hear, the food… | Correct the phrase to “From what I hear”. |
| Said the report that… | The report said that… | Word order should be “The report said that”. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Each exercise focuses on different aspects of using alternatives to “according to.”
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate alternative to “according to.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| __________ the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow. | According to |
| __________ the report, sales have increased significantly. | Based on |
| __________ the CEO, the company is expanding its operations. | As stated by |
| __________ the study, exercise improves mental health. | The study indicates |
| __________ regulations, the company must comply with safety standards. | In compliance with |
| __________ I hear, the new restaurant is excellent. | From what |
| The research __________ that early intervention is crucial. | Suggests |
| __________ the contract, both parties must adhere to the terms. | Pursuant to |
| __________ the data collected, we can draw several conclusions. | From |
| __________ the expert, the project is feasible. | In the view of |
Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences using alternatives to “according to.”
| Original Sentence | Rewritten Sentence |
|---|---|
| According to the report, the economy is improving. | The report states that the economy is improving. |
| According to the study, diet affects health. | The study indicates a correlation between diet and health. |
| According to the CEO, the company is launching a new product. | As stated by the CEO, the company is launching a new product. |
| According to my friend, the movie is great. | If you ask me, the movie is great. |
| According to the investigation, there were accounting irregularities. | The investigation reveals that there were accounting irregularities. |
| According to sources, the deal is almost finalized. | Sources indicate that the deal is almost finalized. |
| According to the weather forecast, it will be sunny tomorrow. | The weather forecast predicts that it will be sunny tomorrow. |
| According to the manual, follow these steps. | The manual describes the following steps. |
| According to the announcement, there will be changes. | The announcement indicates that there will be changes. |
| According to the politician, his policies are effective. | The politician maintains that his policies are effective. |
Exercise 3: Choose the Best Alternative
Choose the best alternative to “according to” in each sentence.
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| __________ the data, the project is successful. | (a) Word is that (b) Based on (c) They say | (b) Based on |
| __________ the expert, the new policy is necessary. | (a) If you ask me (b) As stated by (c) Rumor has it | (b) As stated by |
| The research __________ that the treatment is effective. | (a) suggests (b) tells (c) says | (a) suggests |
| __________ the contract, all terms must be followed. | (a) In compliance with (b) Pursuant to (c) As stated by | (b) Pursuant to |
| __________ I hear, the event was a blast. | (a) From what (b) According to (c) They say | (a) From what |
| The report __________ that sales have increased. | (a) says (b) claims (c) states | (c) states |
| __________ regulations, the company must comply. | (a) Based on (b) In compliance with (c) If you ask me | (b) In compliance with |
| The study __________ a link between diet and health. | (a) indicates (b) says (c) tells | (a) indicates |
| __________ the CEO, expansion is planned. | (a) Word is that (b) As stated by (c) From what I hear | (b) As stated by |
| __________ the review, it’s a great book. | (a) From (b) According to (c) Considering | (a) From |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, exploring more nuanced aspects of attribution can further enhance writing skills. This includes understanding the subtle differences between reporting verbs and using them to convey specific attitudes or interpretations.
For example, using “claims” might suggest skepticism, while using “asserts” might convey more confidence in the source.
Another advanced topic is the use of hedging and boosting in attribution. Hedging involves using language to soften the impact of a statement, while boosting involves using language to strengthen it.
For instance, “The study tentatively suggests” is a hedged statement, while “The study definitively proves” is a boosted statement.
Finally, understanding how cultural and rhetorical contexts influence the choice of attribution phrases is crucial for effective communication in diverse settings. Different cultures may have different norms and expectations regarding attribution, so it’s important to be aware of these differences and adjust your language accordingly.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about alternatives to “according to”:
- Why is it important to use alternatives to “according to”?
Using alternatives to “according to” prevents repetition, enhances the sophistication of your writing, and allows you to convey nuances in meaning and context. It also demonstrates a broader command of the English language.
- What are some formal alternatives to “according to”?
Formal alternatives include: as stated by, as indicated by, pursuant to, in accordance with, in compliance with, with reference to. These are suitable for academic and professional contexts.
- What are some informal alternatives to “according to”?
Informal alternatives include: if you ask me, from what I hear, word is that, they say, apparently. These are appropriate for casual conversations and personal emails.
- How do reporting verbs work as alternatives to “according to”?
Reporting verbs attribute information to a source while also conveying the speaker’s attitude or interpretation. Examples include states, asserts, claims, suggests, indicates, reveals, notes, observes, finds, concludes.
- What are some common mistakes to avoid when using these alternatives?
Common mistakes include using incorrect prepositions (e.g., “based from” instead of “based on”), incorrect verb forms (e.g., “as state” instead of “as stated”), and using informal phrases in formal contexts.
- How can I choose the best alternative for a particular sentence?
Consider the context, the level of formality required, and the specific meaning you want to convey. Choose an alternative that is grammatically correct, clear, and appropriate for the situation.
- Is it always necessary to explicitly state the source of information?
In academic and professional writing, it’s crucial to explicitly state the source of information to maintain credibility and avoid plagiarism. However, in informal contexts, it may not always be necessary.
- Can I use these alternatives in spoken English?
Yes, many of these alternatives can be used in spoken English, depending on the context and your audience. Be mindful of the level of formality and choose alternatives that sound natural and
natural.
- How can I improve my ability to use these alternatives effectively?
Practice using these alternatives in your writing and speaking. Pay attention to how others use them and ask for feedback on your own usage. Over time, you’ll develop a better sense of when and how to use each alternative.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “according to” is a valuable skill that enhances the clarity, sophistication, and impact of your writing and speaking. By understanding the different types of alternatives, their usage rules, and common mistakes to avoid, you can diversify your language skills and communicate more effectively in various contexts.
Whether you’re writing an academic paper, a professional report, or a casual email, these alternatives will help you express attribution with precision and style.
Continue to practice and experiment with these alternatives to refine your language skills and become a more confident and versatile communicator. Remember to consider the context, audience, and desired tone when choosing the best alternative for each situation.
With practice, you’ll be able to seamlessly integrate these alternatives into your writing and speaking, making your message more engaging and impactful.