Other Ways to Say “According To”

Finding the right words can transform everyday writing into something far more engaging, genuine, and emotionally connected.

Whether you’re drafting an academic essay, a professional report, or a heartfelt note, the phrase “according to” while useful can sometimes feel dry or overly formal.

Replacing it with more nuanced phrases can add a personal touch, infuse your message with warmth, and show thoughtfulness and care in how you communicate.

In this guide, you’ll discover 30+ meaningful alternatives that can help elevate your communication, making your writing more expressive, softer, and naturally more reader-friendly. Let’s explore how small changes can make a big impact.

What Does “According To” Mean?

The phrase “according to” is used to reference the source of information, an opinion, or a stated fact. It signals that what follows originates from another person, document, or authority—rather than the speaker’s own viewpoint. For example, “According to the report, sales increased by 15%” credits the data to an external source. This expression adds credibility and clarity, making it a reliable tool in both academic and professional writing.

When to Use “According To”

You can use “according to” in a wide range of scenarios, especially when citing research, referencing expert opinions, or quoting someone directly. It’s particularly effective in formal writing like essays, reports, articles, and legal documents where attribution is essential. For instance:

• Academic writing: “According to Einstein, time is relative.”
  
• News reporting: “According to police sources, the incident occurred at 9 PM.”
  
• Business communication: “According to last quarter’s data, profits rose steadily.”

Using the phrase correctly helps structure your communication and ensures clarity when attributing ideas or statements to others.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “According To”?

Yes, “according to” is both professional and polite when used appropriately. However, relying on it too often may make your writing feel repetitive or overly formal. In some contexts, especially personal writing or casual conversation, it can sound distant. To add warmth, a personal touch, or a more nuanced tone, consider alternatives like:

• “As noted by…”
  
• “Based on the findings of…”
  
• “As highlighted in…”

These engaging variations help you maintain consistency while adjusting your tone for different audiences. By thoughtfully selecting alternatives, you enhance your message’s meaningfulness, making your writing more connected and impactful.

1. As Per

Meaning: Refers to information or instructions taken directly from a source.
Definition: A formal phrase indicating compliance or reference.
Tone: Formal and precise.
Example: As per the contract, the payment is due within 30 days.
Explanation: This phrase helps establish structure and clarity in professional communication.
Purpose and Personalization: Best for business writing or legal content. To soften, pair with friendly context or use in combination with more approachable language.

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2. In Line With

Meaning: Suggests consistency or agreement with a standard, guideline, or principle.
Definition: Implies alignment with expectations or established norms.
Tone: Neutral and professional.
Example: In line with company policy, we will observe a holiday break.
Explanation: It reinforces uniformity and adherence to shared values or rules.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for corporate reports. Can be made conversational in informal writing by rephrasing as “aligned with.”

3. Based On

Meaning: Shows that something is derived or built from a specific foundation.
Definition: Indicates that a conclusion or action stems from given data or input.
Tone: Neutral and explanatory.
Example: Based on recent feedback, the design was revised.
Explanation: This phrase signals logical reasoning, making writing sound thoughtful.
Purpose and Personalization: Useful across styles. To add warmth, introduce the source (e.g., “based on what you said”).

4. As Reported By

Meaning: Attributes information to a published or spoken report.
Definition: Cites a source that has conveyed specific information.
Tone: Objective and informative.
Example: As reported by the local news, the event was a success.
Explanation: Enhances credibility while remaining neutral.
Purpose and Personalization: Suitable for media or academic use. Add emotional tone with qualifiers like “reliably” or “recently.”

5. From the Perspective Of

Meaning: Presents information through a particular viewpoint.
Definition: Acknowledges the subjective stance of a person or group.
Tone: Thoughtful and reflective.
Example: From the perspective of new employees, onboarding needs improvement.
Explanation: Encourages empathy and understanding.
Purpose and Personalization: Excellent for opinion pieces. Adjust based on your audience’s relation to the subject.

6. In Accordance With

Meaning: Expresses strict adherence to rules or guidelines.
Definition: Indicates that something is done following official instructions.
Tone: Formal and regulatory.
Example: In accordance with safety regulations, masks are required.
Explanation: Offers clarity in structured or legal contexts.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in formal documents. To personalize, pair with a conversational lead-in.

7. According To the Findings

Meaning: Refers to conclusions drawn from specific investigations or studies.
Definition: Attributes statements to research results.
Tone: Factual and analytical.
Example: According to the findings, productivity rose 18% post-implementation.
Explanation: Adds weight and authority to your point.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for research summaries. Use visual aids or infographics for a modern tone.

8. On the Authority Of

Meaning: Credits a respected or official source for the statement.
Definition: Signals that a trusted source has endorsed the information.
Tone: Strong and assertive.
Example: On the authority of the committee, the proposal was approved.
Explanation: Enhances legitimacy and trust.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for persuasive writing. Tailor by naming the authority to add specificity.

9. As Mentioned By

Meaning: Acknowledges a prior reference or contributor.
Definition: Points to someone previously cited or quoted.
Tone: Collaborative and respectful.
Example: As mentioned by Dr. Kumar, early intervention is key.
Explanation: Builds continuity and shows attentiveness.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in dialogues or articles to maintain flow. Adjust formality to match tone.

10. Reflecting the Views Of

Meaning: Indicates representation of someone’s opinion.
Definition: Conveys alignment with another’s expressed beliefs.
Tone: Thoughtful and considerate.
Example: Reflecting the views of many citizens, the mayor opposed the policy.
Explanation: Adds balance by presenting external perspectives.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in editorial or policy writing. Personalize with descriptors like “diverse” or “majority.”

11. As Detailed In

Meaning: Highlights specifics previously outlined in a source.
Definition: Refers to thorough information or documentation.
Tone: Clear and informative.
Example: As detailed in the report, three key issues were identified.
Explanation: Signals completeness and transparency.
Purpose and Personalization: Works well in formal writing. To adapt, mention how the details impact the audience.

12. As Outlined By

Meaning: References a structured plan or summary from a source.
Definition: Points to content arranged or summarized by someone else.
Tone: Formal and organized.
Example: As outlined by the strategic plan, growth is projected.
Explanation: Indicates you’re building on an established foundation.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for structured reports. Soften for blog-style writing with simpler wording.

13. According To Research

Meaning: Grounds statements in verified study or analysis.
Definition: Attributes findings to formal research.
Tone: Authoritative and evidence-based.
Example: According to research, sleep improves cognitive performance.
Explanation: Adds credibility and rational backing.
Purpose and Personalization: Perfect for informative articles. Pair with reputable sources for more impact.

14. According To Records

Meaning: Refers to documented data or history.
Definition: Indicates facts sourced from official documents.
Tone: Factual and archival.
Example: According to records, enrollment rose steadily since 2020.
Explanation: Suggests accountability and transparency.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in historical or legal content. Add warmth by connecting it to current relevance.

15. According To Experts

Meaning: Points to informed professional opinions.
Definition: Credits the knowledge of specialists.
Tone: Confident and credible.
Example: According to experts, early exposure boosts language skills.
Explanation: Builds trust and authority.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for persuasive or educational writing. Mention names or fields to strengthen impact.

16. As Confirmed By

Meaning: States that a fact has been verified.
Definition: Indicates validation or corroboration.
Tone: Assured and trustworthy.
Example: As confirmed by the finance team, expenses stayed within budget.
Explanation: Reinforces accuracy and dependability.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in technical or formal writing. Lighten tone with a collaborative phrase.

17. As Cited In

Meaning: Quotes or references a source used earlier.
Definition: Directs the reader to a referenced work.
Tone: Academic and precise.
Example: As cited in The Journal of Medicine, symptoms appeared within hours.
Explanation: Encourages academic integrity and detail.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for scholarly work. Use in-text citations for better flow.

18. According To the Data

Meaning: Bases a statement on collected numerical evidence.
Definition: Suggests reliance on objective information.
Tone: Analytical and neutral.
Example: According to the data, user retention increased by 25%.
Explanation: Demonstrates a data-driven approach.
Purpose and Personalization: Strong for business or tech writing. Use charts to enhance delivery.

19. As Instructed By

Meaning: Indicates an action based on specific guidance.
Definition: Follows explicit orders or directions.
Tone: Respectful and compliant.
Example: As instructed by the manager, the report was updated.
Explanation: Shows responsibility and structure.
Purpose and Personalization: Useful in professional communication. Add clarity by stating purpose of the instruction.

20. In Agreement With

Meaning: Shows mutual consent or shared understanding.
Definition: Indicates harmony or compliance with a standard.
Tone: Diplomatic and cooperative.
Example: In agreement with industry guidelines, the product was certified.
Explanation: Promotes alignment and teamwork.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for consensus-driven messaging. Make it more approachable by adding context.

21. According To Tradition

Meaning: Bases a point on cultural or historical practices.
Definition: Refers to long-held customs.
Tone: Reflective and respectful.
Example: According to tradition, the celebration begins at sunrise.
Explanation: Adds cultural richness or context.
Purpose and Personalization: Useful in narrative or cultural writing. Adjust depth depending on reader familiarity.

22. As Noted By

Meaning: Calls attention to a previously acknowledged idea or quote.
Definition: Recognizes contributions or statements from others.
Tone: Respectful and acknowledging.
Example: As noted by the speaker, innovation drives progress.
Explanation: Creates continuity and builds on earlier points.
Purpose and Personalization: Works in both casual and formal settings. Use to maintain flow in longer texts.

23. From the Viewpoint Of

Meaning: Emphasizes a subjective stance or opinion.
Definition: Frames content from a particular perspective.
Tone: Empathetic and open.
Example: From the viewpoint of caregivers, the policy lacks flexibility.
Explanation: Enhances understanding and depth.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for persuasive writing. Adjust based on empathy level needed.

24. According To Observations

Meaning: Relays information gathered from experience or visual analysis.
Definition: Uses firsthand insight or witnessed patterns.
Tone: Empirical and observational.
Example: According to observations, customers prefer mobile browsing.
Explanation: Adds real-world relevance.
Purpose and Personalization: Effective for UX and research reporting. Add details to personalize insights.

25. In the Words Of

Meaning: Quotes someone directly.
Definition: Shares another person’s exact phrasing.
Tone: Authentic and personal.
Example: In the words of Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon…”
Explanation: Lends voice and personality.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for speeches or storytelling. Choose sources your audience connects with.

26. According to Legislation

Meaning: Grounds a statement in legal texts or laws.
Definition: Refers to statutory guidelines.
Tone: Legal and authoritative.
Example: According to legislation, all businesses must comply with GDPR.
Explanation: Establishes rule-based structure.
Purpose and Personalization: Necessary for compliance topics. Clarify for lay readers when needed.

27. As Suggested By

Meaning: Offers a recommendation from someone else.
Definition: Proposes an idea attributed to another party.
Tone: Cooperative and constructive.
Example: As suggested by our advisor, we’ll test the prototype first.
Explanation: Encourages consideration of expert ideas.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for strategic communication. Add details to show rationale.

28. According to Policy

Meaning: Relays rules or procedures within an organization.
Definition: Indicates organizational standards or expectations.
Tone: Direct and administrative.
Example: According to policy, remote work must be approved in advance.
Explanation: Communicates structure and fairness.
Purpose and Personalization: Common in HR writing. Clarify how policy affects the reader.

29. Following the Guidance Of

Meaning: Indicates that actions are being taken with expert direction.
Definition: Refers to informed leadership or mentorship.
Tone: Supportive and guided.
Example: Following the guidance of our mentor, we shifted strategies.
Explanation: Adds a collaborative and learning-centered tone.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in developmental writing. Mention benefits or outcomes for impact.

30. According to the Source

Meaning: Attributes a statement to an unnamed but relevant origin.
Definition: Credits a piece of information generally.
Tone: Neutral and vague.
Example: According to the source, a decision has been made.
Explanation: Offers flexibility when specifics can’t be disclosed.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for sensitive topics. Use tone cues to show intent.

31. As Shared In

Meaning: Indicates something already communicated.
Definition: References prior shared material.
Tone: Friendly and informative.
Example: As shared in the email, the meeting is postponed.
Explanation: Maintains clarity and continuity.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for updates. Personalize by linking back to the shared context.

32. As Referenced In

Meaning: Cites something that’s been mentioned or linked.
Definition: Points to external or internal sources.
Tone: Formal and bibliographic.
Example: As referenced in the appendix, figures A and B show growth.
Explanation: Supports credibility and completeness.
Purpose and Personalization: Ideal for structured documents. Add summary when referencing technical items.

33. By the Words Of

Meaning: Expresses content using someone’s exact phrasing.
Definition: Highlights quoted material.
Tone: Narrative and expressive.
Example: By the words of the artist, “Color is emotion.”
Explanation: Brings color and tone to factual writing.
Purpose and Personalization: Best for literary or reflective writing. Choose quotes with emotional impact.

34. From Evidence Provided By

Meaning: Draws from concrete, presented proof.
Definition: Uses provided data to support a claim.
Tone: Analytical and structured.
Example: From evidence provided by the audit, expenditures were overstated.
Explanation: Anchors points in tangible facts.
Purpose and Personalization: Use in analytical writing. Personalize by connecting implications to the reader.

35. As Observed In

Meaning: Shares insight based on direct observation.
Definition: Describes facts seen or noticed.
Tone: Empirical and grounded.
Example: As observed in user testing, navigation improved with icons.
Explanation: Strengthens argument with firsthand insight.
Purpose and Personalization: Great for UX or research. Personalize by relating observed outcomes to goals.

Conclusion

Choosing the right alternative to “according to” can transform your writing from routine to resonant. Thoughtful phrasing not only builds clarity but also strengthens the connection between you and your reader. Whether you’re crafting academic papers, blog articles, or heartfelt personal letters, using nuanced expressions makes your message more engaging and authentic.

I genuinely hope this guide becomes your go-to resource for enhancing tone and credibility. Keep experimenting, keep refining your words matter. Let these alternatives empower your voice and purpose. For meaningful, polished communication, this post is your trusted companion in mastering credible, context-aware language.