Finding other ways to say according to can make your writing clearer, more natural, and less repetitive. The best alternative depends on whether you are citing a person, reporting research, referring to a document, or explaining that something follows a rule or plan.
Some options sound neutral, while others show whether a source claims, confirms, suggests, argues, or discovers something. Choosing a precise phrase helps readers understand both the source and the strength of the information.
Quick Answer
Other ways to say according to include based on, as stated by, as reported by, as noted by, in the view of, under, and in line with. Choose an alternative that matches your source, purpose, and level of certainty.
TL;DR
- Meaning: As stated by a source or in agreement with a rule, plan, or record
- Tone: Usually neutral and factual
- Common use: Citing people, reports, studies, policies, and official documents
- Where it appears: Essays, news reports, emails, business documents, and everyday speech
- Formality: Suitable for both formal and informal writing
- Best approach: Use a more precise reporting verb when the source makes a claim, argument, finding, or recommendation
What Does According To Mean?
According to has two main meanings.
First, it can identify where information or an opinion comes from.
Example:
According to the project manager, installation will begin on Monday.
Here, the project manager provides the information.
Second, it can show that something follows a rule, plan, standard, category, or condition.
Example:
The materials were stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Here, the storage method follows the instructions.
Merriam-Webster lists meanings that include in conformity with, as stated or supported by, and depending on. Cambridge also explains that the phrase can introduce information from a person or source and describe something based on a system or plan. Merriam-Webster, Cambridge Dictionary
other ways to say as you can see
Other Ways to Say According To When Citing a Source
These alternatives work when you need to credit a person, report, study, article, or organization.
1. As stated by
Use as stated by when repeating information that someone expressed clearly.
Example:
As stated by the director, the new policy takes effect next month.
Best for:
- Official announcements
- Workplace communication
- Reports
- Formal writing
2. As reported by
This phrase works well for information published by a news organization, agency, or other reporting source.
Example:
As reported by the local news station, several roads will close this weekend.
It identifies the reporting source without suggesting that you independently confirmed the information.
3. As noted by
Use as noted by for a point that someone mentioned or drew attention to.
Example:
As noted by the reviewer, the proposal lacks a clear delivery schedule.
The wording sounds professional and slightly less forceful than as stated by.
4. As explained by
This option introduces an explanation rather than a simple statement.
Example:
As explained by the technician, the system needs time to complete the update.
It works well when the source clarifies a process, reason, or technical issue.
5. As mentioned by
Use this phrase when referring to something a person brought up earlier.
Example:
As mentioned by Priya during the meeting, the client has requested another sample.
It sounds natural in emails, meeting notes, and workplace messages.
6. As indicated by
This expression suits data, evidence, signs, or formal documents.
Example:
As indicated by the survey results, most customers prefer email support.
It suggests that the source points toward a conclusion.
7. As shown by
Use as shown by when the evidence appears clearly in figures, results, records, or examples.
Example:
As shown by the monthly figures, online sales increased in June.
This alternative gives the evidence a stronger role than the writer’s personal opinion.
8. As confirmed by
Choose this option when a reliable source has verified the information.
Example:
As confirmed by the airline, the flight has been cancelled.
Avoid using confirmed unless the source actually verified the fact.
9. As documented by
This phrase works for information recorded in formal or historical documents.
Example:
As documented by the inspection team, several panels required repair.
It often appears in technical, legal, medical, and administrative writing.
10. As described by
Use this wording when presenting someone’s account, explanation, or description.
Example:
As described by the witness, the vehicle left the area shortly after midnight.
11. As outlined by
This option introduces a process, plan, structure, or set of requirements.
Example:
As outlined by the consultant, the work will proceed in three stages.
12. As observed by
Use as observed by when a person noticed something through direct examination or experience.
Example:
As observed by the quality inspector, the surface contained several visible cracks.
The word observed should refer to an actual observation rather than an unsupported assumption.
Alternatives for Academic and Research Writing
Academic writing often benefits from specific reporting verbs. Purdue OWL explains that signal phrases can use verbs such as indicate or argue to introduce another author’s work. These phrases help readers separate the writer’s ideas from material taken from a source.
13. Based on
Based on connects a conclusion or action to supporting information.
Example:
Based on the available evidence, the researchers recommended further testing.
Use it for:
- Evidence
- Data
- Records
- Findings
- Professional judgment
14. Research by
This phrase directly identifies the people or organization responsible for a study.
Example:
Research by the university team found a connection between sleep and concentration.
Include a proper citation when using it in academic work.
15. Findings from
Use findings from when referring specifically to research results.
Example:
Findings from the survey suggest that flexible hours improve employee satisfaction.
16. The study found
This sentence structure states what researchers discovered.
Example:
The study found that regular practice improved participants’ recall.
It sounds more direct than beginning every sentence with according to.
17. The research suggests
Use this wording when the evidence supports a possible conclusion but does not establish certainty.
Example:
The research suggests that short breaks may help people maintain focus.
Suggests carries less certainty than proves or confirms.
18. The evidence indicates
This phrase introduces a conclusion supported by evidence.
Example:
The evidence indicates that the original estimate was too low.
It sounds formal and works well in reports, essays, and analytical documents.
19. In the words of
This expression introduces someone’s exact wording or a close reference to it.
Example:
In the words of the department chair, the program needs a clearer purpose.
If you reproduce the person’s exact words in published work, apply the required quotation and citation rules.
20. In the view of
Use this phrase to present an opinion rather than an established fact.
Example:
In the view of several economists, the policy may reduce short-term demand.
It makes the source’s role clear and avoids presenting an opinion as universal agreement.
21. From the perspective of
This alternative highlights a person’s position, experience, or professional viewpoint.
Example:
From the perspective of small business owners, the new process adds unnecessary paperwork.
22. The author argues
Use this structure when a writer presents a reasoned position.
Example:
The author argues that public transport needs long-term funding rather than temporary support.
Argues is more precise than says because it describes the author’s purpose.
23. The author explains
This wording works when a source clarifies how or why something happens.
Example:
The author explains how social pressure can influence purchasing decisions.
24. The report concludes
Use this option for the final judgment or conclusion of a report.
Example:
The report concludes that the current process cannot meet future demand.
Check that the conclusion actually appears in the source before using this wording.
Professional Alternatives for Emails and Reports
Workplace writing often needs direct language. These options can make an email or report sound clear without becoming overly formal.
25. Per
Per means in accordance with or as directed by in many professional contexts.
Example:
Per your request, I have attached the revised schedule.
Example:
Per the contract, payment is due within 30 days.
Per works well in concise business writing, but it can sound stiff in friendly messages.
26. Under
Use under when referring to a contract, law, policy, agreement, or set of conditions.
Example:
Under the current policy, employees may carry unused leave into the next year.
27. In line with
This phrase shows agreement with a policy, expectation, plan, or standard.
Example:
In line with the client’s requirements, the team submitted a revised sample.
28. In accordance with
This is a formal way to say that an action follows a rule or requirement.
Example:
The inspection was completed in accordance with the approved procedure.
It works particularly well in contracts, compliance documents, method statements, and formal notices.
29. As required by
Use this phrase when a rule, document, or authority creates an obligation.
Example:
As required by the contract, the contractor submitted an updated program.
30. As specified in
This option points readers to a particular requirement in a document.
Example:
As specified in the technical manual, the equipment must remain upright during transport.
31. As set out in
Use as set out in for information formally presented in a policy, contract, procedure, or plan.
Example:
As set out in the agreement, either party may end the service with 30 days’ notice.
32. In keeping with
This phrase means consistent with a principle, style, tradition, or expectation.
Example:
In keeping with company policy, the incident was reported to the safety team.
33. Following
Following can mean that an action complies with instructions or happens after an event.
Example:
Following the engineer’s instructions, the crew stopped work in the affected area.
Make sure the sentence clearly shows which meaning applies.
34. On the basis of
Use this formal phrase when a decision rests on particular evidence or criteria.
Example:
The application was approved on the basis of the documents provided.
35. In response to
This phrase works when an action happens because of a request, concern, event, or instruction.
Example:
In response to the client’s comments, the design team revised the drawing.
It does not match according to in every sentence, but it often creates a clearer professional alternative.
Other Ways to Say According To in Casual Conversation
People use simpler expressions in everyday speech and casual messages.
Useful options include:
- Based on what I heard
- From what I understand
- From what I have read
- They said
- I was told
- The report says
- The website says
- It looks like
- Apparently
Examples:
From what I understand, the store closes at 8 p.m.
The website says delivery takes three to five days.
I was told the meeting has moved to Friday.
Apparently should be used carefully. It can suggest that the information remains unverified or that the speaker feels doubtful.
How to Choose the Right Alternative
The best replacement depends on what the source actually does.
| Source purpose | Suitable wording | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Makes a statement | As stated by | As stated by the manager, access remains restricted |
| Publishes information | As reported by | As reported by the newspaper, voting begins at 7 a.m. |
| Verifies a fact | As confirmed by | As confirmed by the bank, the payment was received |
| Presents evidence | The evidence indicates | The evidence indicates that the fault began overnight |
| Offers an opinion | In the view of | In the view of the committee, the plan needs revision |
| Makes a reasoned case | The author argues | The author argues that the rule creates unfair results |
| Explains a process | As explained by | As explained by the engineer, the material needs seven days to cure |
| Follows a requirement | In accordance with | The work proceeded in accordance with the approved method |
| Refers to a contract | Under | Under the agreement, both parties must provide written notice |
| Uses information to decide | Based on | Based on the test results, the team rejected the sample |
Examples in Real Situations
Workplace update
Situation: A manager provides the latest schedule.
Example: As stated by the project manager, delivery will begin on Tuesday.
Meaning: The project manager serves as the source of the schedule.
News report
Situation: A news organization reports a public announcement.
Example: As reported by the BBC, the minister announced the policy on Thursday.
Meaning: The BBC reported the information.
Research paper
Situation: A study presents a cautious result.
Example: The study suggests that daily walking may support better sleep.
Meaning: The evidence supports a possibility rather than a certain conclusion.
Contractual requirement
Situation: A contract sets a deadline.
Example: Under the contract, the supplier must respond within seven days.
Meaning: The contract creates the requirement.
Technical instruction
Situation: A manual explains how to use equipment safely.
Example: As specified in the manual, the unit must remain disconnected during maintenance.
Meaning: The manual contains the instruction.
Casual message
Situation: Someone shares information received from another person.
Example: From what I heard, Sam is joining us later.
Meaning: The speaker heard the information but may not have confirmed it.
When You Should Use According To
The original phrase remains useful when you want to:
- Identify the source of information
- Separate another person’s opinion from your own
- Refer to a report, forecast, record, or document
- Explain that an action follows a system or plan
- Keep the attribution neutral
- Avoid suggesting more certainty than the source provides
It is especially useful when the source itself matters.
Example:
According to the weather forecast, heavy rain may arrive tonight.
The sentence tells readers where the prediction came from.
When You Should Use a More Precise Phrase
Replace it when a specific verb would reveal more about the source.
Compare:
According to the researchers, the treatment may reduce discomfort.
The researchers found that the treatment reduced discomfort.
They also suggest that the treatment may reduce discomfort.
The researchers argue that the treatment should become standard practice.
Each sentence communicates a different relationship between the researchers and the information. Found describes a result, suggests signals caution, and argues introduces a position.
When You Should Avoid It
Avoid or revise the phrase in these situations:
When referring to your own opinion
According to me sounds unnatural in standard modern English when you simply mean in my opinion.
Better:
- In my opinion
- From my perspective
- I believe
- As I see it
When no source appears
According to the information may sound vague if readers cannot identify the information.
Better:
Based on the figures in the April sales report, demand has declined.
When the source does not support the claim
Do not attribute a conclusion to a report, person, or study unless the source actually makes or supports that point.
When repetition weakens the paragraph
Several sentences beginning with the same phrase can make writing feel mechanical. Use specific reporting verbs or combine related information.
When stronger certainty is needed
If an authority has formally verified a fact, as confirmed by may communicate the situation more accurately.
Is According To Formal or Informal?
According to is neutral. It works in conversation, workplace messages, journalism, reports, essays, and academic writing.
The surrounding source and sentence determine the level of formality.
Formal:
According to the audit report, the department exceeded its annual budget.
Neutral:
According to Maya, the meeting starts at 10 a.m.
Casual:
According to Ben, the café is already closed.
In research writing, the phrase can function as a signal phrase, but it does not replace a complete citation. Academic styles may still require details such as the author, publication year, or page number. Purdue OWL
Is According To Rude?
The phrase itself is not rude. It usually sounds neutral.
Tone can change when a speaker uses it to challenge someone.
Example:
Well, according to you, everything is my fault.
In this context, the wording may sound defensive or sarcastic. The attitude comes from the complete sentence and situation, not from the phrase alone.
Common Misunderstandings
Using it to present your own belief
According to normally points to an outside source, system, or standard. Use in my opinion for your own view.
Treating every source as equally reliable
Attribution identifies a source but does not prove that the information is correct. Readers still need enough detail to assess the source.
Using confirmed for an unverified claim
Confirmed communicates verification. Use reported, stated, claimed, or suggested if the source has not established the information as fact.
Assuming based on always has the same meaning
Based on can introduce evidence for a conclusion or describe the foundation of a creative work.
Example:
Based on the inspection results, the team requested repairs.
Example:
The film is based on a novel.
Only the first use closely matches according to.
Quick Reference Table
| Context | What it means | Tone | Best use | Avoid if |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| According to the manager | The manager provided the information | Neutral | General attribution | You need to describe a specific claim or finding |
| As reported by | A source published or reported the information | Neutral | News and official updates | The source did not report it |
| As confirmed by | A source verified the information | Firm | Verified facts | Confirmation is unavailable |
| Based on | Evidence supports the decision or conclusion | Neutral | Analysis and recommendations | No supporting basis exists |
| In the view of | A person or group holds an opinion | Measured | Opinions and perspectives | The point is an established fact |
| The study suggests | Research supports a possible conclusion | Cautious | Limited or developing evidence | The study proves a direct conclusion |
| Under | A rule or document governs the matter | Formal | Laws, policies, and contracts | You are citing a personal opinion |
| In accordance with | An action follows a requirement | Formal | Compliance and procedures | You only need casual wording |
| Per | A request or document provides direction | Concise | Business emails | A warmer tone would be better |
| From what I understand | The speaker shares their present understanding | Casual | Conversation and messages | Formal proof or certainty is required |
Conclusion
Other ways to say according to include as stated by, as reported by, based on, in the view of, under, and in accordance with. The right choice depends on whether you are introducing a statement, opinion, finding, rule, or verified fact.
Keep the original phrase when you need neutral attribution. Choose a precise reporting verb when you want to show exactly what the source stated, explained, suggested, argued, found, or confirmed.
FAQs
What does according to mean in simple words?
It means as stated by a person or source. It can also mean in agreement with a rule, plan, instruction, or system.
What are professional ways to say according to?
Professional alternatives include as stated by, as noted by, based on, as outlined in, under, per, and in accordance with.
Can I use according to in an email?
Yes. It works in both formal and everyday emails. A more precise expression may sound clearer when referring to a request, policy, or document.
Is according to formal or informal?
It is neutral and suitable for both formal and informal communication. Phrases such as in accordance with sound more formal, while from what I heard sounds more casual.
Can I say according to me?
In my opinion, from my perspective, or I believe usually sounds more natural when expressing your own view. According to generally introduces an outside source.
What is the difference between according to and based on?
According to identifies a source or shows compliance with a system. Based on explains the evidence, information, or foundation behind a decision or conclusion.
What can I use instead of according to in an essay?
Use the author argues, the study found, the evidence indicates, research by, as noted by, or in the view of. Match the reporting verb to what the source actually communicates.