30 Other Ways to Say "According To" (With Examples)

Finding just the right words can make all the difference when communicating with warmth, thoughtfulness, and care. Whether you’re trying to add a personal touch or make your message feel a bit softer, there are plenty of ways to replace “according to” with more nuanced phrases.

This article offers 30 meaningful alternatives that can elevate your communication and make it feel more engaging, genuine, and connected.

What Does “According To” Mean?

“According to” is a commonly used phrase that introduces information from a source, viewpoint, or authority. It signals that the following statement or detail originates from someone or something else, not the speaker.

When to Use “According To”

You’ll want to use “according to” or one of its alternatives when you’re relaying information from another source, citing facts, opinions, or attributing a viewpoint. In both formal and informal contexts, this phrase helps to clarify where information or ideas originate.

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

Yes, saying “according to” is considered professional and polite, particularly when you need to cite a source or present a piece of information. However, choosing a more personalized or less formal alternative can sometimes make your communication feel warmer and more accessible.

According To Synonyms:

As Per
In Line With
Based On
As Reported By
From the Perspective Of
In Accordance With
According To the Findings
On the Authority Of
As Mentioned By
Reflecting the Views Of
As Detailed In
As Outlined By
According To Research
According To Records
According To Experts
As Confirmed By
As Cited In
According To the Data
As Instructed By
In Agreement With
According To Tradition
As Noted By
From the Viewpoint Of
According To Observations
In the Words Of
According to Legislation
As Suggested By
According to Policy
Following the Guidance Of
According to the Source

1. As Per

Definition: Used to refer to an authority or a specific source of information. Meaning: Relays that something aligns with a referenced source or guideline. Tone: Neutral, slightly formal. Example: “As per the company’s guidelines, employees are encouraged to use paid leave within the calendar year.” Explanation: This phrase is effective in formal contexts, especially in professional environments.

2. In Line With

Definition: Aligns with or agrees with a source or standard. Meaning: Implies that information corresponds to something else. Tone: Formal, appropriate for both professional and casual settings. Example: “In line with recent studies, a balanced diet can significantly improve mental health.” Explanation: Use this phrase when aligning an idea or statement with an established rule or trend.

3. Based On

Definition: Indicates that information is derived from a specific source or fact. Meaning: Shows reliance on data, observations, or feedback. Tone: Neutral and straightforward. Example: “Based on customer reviews, this product is among the best-rated.” Explanation: Suitable for casual or formal contexts, especially when citing feedback or findings.

4. As Reported By

Definition: Cites a source that provided specific information. Meaning: Shows that details are sourced from a specific report or publication. Tone: Formal, direct. Example: “As reported by The New York Times, community gardens are rising in popularity.” Explanation: Useful for journalistic or news-related contexts.

5. From the Perspective Of

Definition: Provides a view or opinion originating from someone or something. Meaning: Focuses on understanding a viewpoint. Tone: Thoughtful, conversational. Example: “From the perspective of environmental activists, reducing plastic use is essential.” Explanation: This phrase is empathetic, helping convey a view that may be subjective or opinion-based.

6. In Accordance With

Definition: Complies with or is in agreement with a specific standard or rule. Meaning: Reflects adherence to a rule or guideline. Tone: Formal, professional. Example: “In accordance with safety guidelines, protective gear must be worn at all times.” Explanation: This phrase is ideal in legal, official, or policy-based contexts.

7. According To the Findings

Definition: Cites a specific study or research. Meaning: Details come directly from research or data. Tone: Scientific, factual. Example: “According to the findings, regular exercise can improve mental health.” Explanation: This variation works well in academic or research-based discussions.

8. On the Authority Of

Definition: Based on the expertise or command of an authority. Meaning: Shows that information is backed by an authoritative source. Tone: Formal, professional. Example: “On the authority of leading doctors, regular screenings are recommended.” Explanation: Use this phrase for authoritative and formal statements.

9. As Mentioned By

Definition: References a specific source or person who shared the information. Meaning: Indicates that someone previously stated the information. Tone: Conversational, neutral. Example: “As mentioned by our team leader, the project deadline is next week.” Explanation: Great for informal or work discussions.

10. Reflecting the Views Of

Definition: Expresses the opinions or thoughts of a specific group or individual. Meaning: Indicates the information mirrors someone’s perspective. Tone: Thoughtful, polite. Example: “Reflecting the views of many parents, the school has increased outdoor playtime.” Explanation: This phrase works well in empathetic, inclusive discussions.

11. As Detailed In

Definition: Refers to specific information laid out in a source. Meaning: Indicates that detailed information is found within a referenced document. Tone: Formal, precise. Example: “As detailed in the report, the new policy will take effect next month.” Explanation: This phrase is effective in professional or academic contexts where specificity is required.

12. As Outlined By

Definition: Presents information that is arranged or summarized by a source. Meaning: Indicates that the following information is summarized or listed in detail by someone. Tone: Formal, informative. Example: “As outlined by the project guidelines, we must adhere to the budget constraints.” Explanation: Useful when discussing plans or frameworks established by others.

13. According To Research

Definition: Based on findings from scientific or academic studies. Meaning: Cites specific academic studies or findings. Tone: Scholarly, factual. Example: “According to research, mindfulness practices can enhance overall well-being.” Explanation: Ideal for discussions rooted in scientific data or studies.

14. According To Records

Definition: Based on documented evidence or data. Meaning: Indicates that the information is verified by official documents or data. Tone: Professional, factual. Example: “According to records, this is the highest sales quarter to date.” Explanation: This phrase is useful in business or legal contexts where documentation is key.

15. According To Experts

Definition: Citing the opinion or findings of professionals in a particular field. Meaning: Indicates that the information is supported by knowledgeable authorities. Tone: Credible, respectful. Example: “According to experts, early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.” Explanation: This phrase builds credibility by referencing recognized authorities in a field.

16. As Confirmed By

Definition: Indicates that information has been verified by a source. Meaning: Shows that the following statement is validated or substantiated. Tone: Formal, authoritative. Example: “As confirmed by the spokesperson, the event will proceed as scheduled.” Explanation: Useful in contexts where confirmation is necessary to establish trust.

17. As Cited In

Definition: Refers to information that is quoted from a specific source. Meaning: Indicates that the following information can be found in a referenced work. Tone: Academic, formal. Example: “As cited in the academic journal, sleep deprivation affects cognitive function.” Explanation: This phrase is perfect for academic writing where citations are important.

18. According To the Data

Definition: Relies on statistical or empirical evidence. Meaning: Indicates that the information is based on collected data. Tone: Analytical, factual. Example: “According to the data, consumer spending has increased by 15% this quarter.” Explanation: Use this phrase when discussing statistics or data analysis.

19. As Instructed By

Definition: Refers to directives given by an authority figure or document. Meaning: Indicates that the information is based on instructions provided by a source. Tone: Professional, directive. Example: “As instructed by management, all employees must attend the meeting.” Explanation: Ideal for situations involving rules or instructions.

20. In Agreement With

Definition: Indicates alignment with a particular opinion or guideline. Meaning: Suggests consensus or conformity to a standard. Tone: Formal, cooperative. Example: “In agreement with industry standards, we will implement these changes.” Explanation: This phrase is useful in collaborative or formal settings.

21. According To Tradition

Definition: Relates to information based on customs or long-held practices. Meaning: Indicates that the following statement is rooted in cultural or historical practices. Tone: Respectful, reflective. Example: “According to tradition, we celebrate the festival with a family gathering.” Explanation: Ideal when discussing cultural or historical practices.

22. As Noted By

Definition: Refers to something that has been mentioned or acknowledged by a source. Meaning: Indicates that information has been recognized by someone. Tone: Neutral, respectful. Example: “As noted by the researcher, the results may vary depending on location.” Explanation: This phrase is great for citing acknowledgments in a discussion.

23. From the Viewpoint Of

Definition: Indicates a perspective that is subjective or opinion-based. Meaning: Emphasizes that the following information reflects a specific angle or opinion. Tone: Conversational, thoughtful. Example: “From the viewpoint of teachers, smaller class sizes benefit student learning.” Explanation: Useful for highlighting personal opinions or perspectives.

24. According To Observations

Definition: Relies on personal or external observations made by someone. Meaning: Indicates that the information is based on what has been observed. Tone: Informal, personal. Example: “According to observations, people tend to be happier in nature.” Explanation: This phrase is suitable for discussions based on anecdotal or experiential evidence.

25. In the Words Of

Definition: Directly quotes someone’s statement or opinion. Meaning: Shows that the following statement is a direct quotation. Tone: Engaging, informal. Example: “In the words of the famous author, ‘Creativity takes courage.’” Explanation: Perfect for emphasizing quotes or notable sayings.

26. According to Legislation

Definition: Relates to information established by laws or regulations. Meaning: Indicates that the following statement is based on legal frameworks. Tone: Formal, authoritative. Example: “According to legislation, all businesses must comply with safety standards.” Explanation: Useful in legal or regulatory discussions.

27. As Suggested By

Definition: Indicates that a recommendation has been made by a source. Meaning: Shows that the information follows a suggestion. Tone: Friendly, supportive. Example: “As suggested by the nutritionist, a balanced diet is crucial for health.” Explanation: This phrase is suitable for sharing advice or recommendations.

28. According to Policy

Definition: Relates to information established by a set of rules or guidelines. Meaning: Indicates that the following statement is based on official policy. Tone: Professional, formal. Example: “According to policy, all employee feedback must remain confidential.” Explanation: Ideal for discussions regarding workplace rules or guidelines.

29. Following the Guidance Of

Definition: Indicates compliance with the advice or direction of someone. Meaning: Shows that the information aligns with instructions or guidance. Tone: Respectful, formal. Example: “Following the guidance of our mentor, we’ve adjusted our strategy.” Explanation: Useful for situations involving mentorship or advisory contexts.

30. According to the Source

Definition: Cites the original provider of information. Meaning: Indicates that the information comes directly from a specific source. Tone: Neutral, direct. Example: “According to the source, this method has proven effective in trials.” Explanation: This phrase is beneficial when emphasizing the origin of information.

Conclusion

Incorporating thoughtful alternatives to “according to” allows your communication to resonate on a deeper level. By choosing the right words, you can express care and consideration, enriching your interactions.

Each phrase serves a purpose and can be selected based on the context, making your messages not only informative but also engaging and heartfelt.