The phrase “according to” is very common in English. We use it to show where information comes from or who said something.
For example, “According to the teacher…” or “According to the report…”. It helps us give credit to sources and share information clearly.
But in real communication—especially in writing, business emails, academic work, or storytelling—repeating the same phrase can sound boring.
That’s why learning other ways to say according to is very important. It helps you sound more natural, professional, and fluent.
Different phrases can also change the tone. Some sound formal, some casual, and some are perfect for business.
In this article, you will learn 14 powerful alternatives to “according to” with meanings, examples, and usage tips so you can improve your English step by step.
What Does “According to” Mean?
The phrase “according to” is a prepositional expression used to introduce information from a source. It shows that the statement is based on someone else’s opinion, report, or document.
Grammar Explanation:
- Structure: According to + person / source / document
- Example: According to the news report, the weather will change tomorrow.
It is commonly used in both spoken and written English to reference information clearly and avoid personal responsibility for the statement.
When to Use “According to”
You can use “according to” in many situations:
- Reporting news or facts
- Writing essays or academic papers
- Giving opinions from experts
- Quoting surveys or studies
- Sharing information in business communication
Example:
- According to the manager, the meeting is postponed.
It is flexible and works in both formal and semi-formal contexts.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “According to”?
Yes, “according to” is completely professional and polite. It is widely used in business emails, academic writing, journalism, and official reports.
However, repeating it too often can make your writing sound repetitive. That’s why professionals use alternatives to “according to” to improve style and variety.
In formal writing, it is safe and acceptable. In casual speaking, it may sound slightly formal, so simpler phrases are sometimes preferred.
Pros and Cons of Using “According to”
Pros:
- Clear and easy to understand
- Works in formal and informal contexts
- Useful for reporting facts
- Widely accepted in academic and business writing
Cons:
- Can sound repetitive if overused
- Slightly formal for casual conversation
- Lacks variety in creative writing
- May sound mechanical in long texts
14 Other Ways to Say “According to” (With Examples)
1. As stated by
Meaning: Used to show a direct statement from someone or something.
Explanation: Common in reports and formal writing.
Example Sentence: As stated by the CEO, profits will increase next year.
Best Use: Formal, Business
Worst Use: Casual chats
Tone: Formal
2. In the opinion of
Meaning: Shows someone’s viewpoint.
Explanation: Used when sharing beliefs or judgments.
Example Sentence: In the opinion of the expert, the plan will work.
Best Use: Academic, Formal
Worst Use: News reporting
Tone: Neutral
3. As reported by
Meaning: Used for news or media sources.
Explanation: Common in journalism.
Example Sentence: As reported by the newspaper, the storm caused damage.
Best Use: News, Formal writing
Worst Use: Casual talk
Tone: Formal
4. Based on
Meaning: Shows information comes from data or facts.
Explanation: Very common in analysis.
Example Sentence: Based on the data, sales are increasing.
Best Use: Business, Academic
Worst Use: Direct quotes
Tone: Neutral
5. In line with
Meaning: Shows agreement with rules or statements.
Explanation: Often used in corporate communication.
Example Sentence: In line with company policy, leave is approved.
Best Use: Business, Formal
Worst Use: Informal speech
Tone: Formal
6. As per
Meaning: Means “according to” (formal/legal tone).
Explanation: Common in business and legal English.
Example Sentence: As per your request, the file has been sent.
Best Use: Business, Legal
Worst Use: Casual English
Tone: Formal
7. As mentioned by
Meaning: Refers to something previously said.
Explanation: Useful in writing and presentations.
Example Sentence: As mentioned by the teacher, the exam is next week.
Best Use: Academic, Business
Worst Use: Breaking news
Tone: Neutral
8. As indicated by
Meaning: Shows evidence or signals.
Explanation: Often used with data or charts.
Example Sentence: As indicated by the results, performance improved.
Best Use: Research, Reports
Worst Use: Conversations
Tone: Formal
9. Per
Meaning: Short form of “according to.”
Explanation: Very common in business writing and emails.
Example Sentence: Per the manager, the meeting is canceled.
Best Use: Business, Emails
Worst Use: Casual speech
Tone: Formal
10. From what [someone] says
Meaning: Based on someone’s words.
Explanation: More conversational and informal.
Example Sentence: From what John says, the project is delayed.
Best Use: Informal, Spoken English
Worst Use: Academic writing
Tone: Casual
11. It is said that
Meaning: General belief or rumor.
Explanation: Used when the source is not specific.
Example Sentence: It is said that the city is very expensive.
Best Use: Storytelling, General speech
Worst Use: Formal reports
Tone: Neutral
12. As observed in
Meaning: Based on what is seen or studied.
Explanation: Common in scientific writing.
Example Sentence: As observed in the experiment, temperature increased.
Best Use: Science, Research
Worst Use: Casual talk
Tone: Formal
13. According to the findings of
Meaning: Refers to research results.
Explanation: Very academic and structured.
Example Sentence: According to the findings of the study, sleep improves memory.
Best Use: Academic writing
Worst Use: Casual conversation
Tone: Formal
14. As documented in
Meaning: Based on written records or documents.
Explanation: Used in official and historical writing.
Example Sentence: As documented in the report, changes were made in 2024.
Best Use: Legal, Academic
Worst Use: Spoken English
Tone: Formal
Comparison Table of Popular Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| As per | Formal | Business & Legal |
| Based on | Neutral | Data & Analysis |
| As reported by | Formal | News Writing |
| In the opinion of | Neutral | Opinions |
| Per | Formal | Emails & Business |
| From what X says | Casual | Spoken English |
| As stated by | Formal | Reports |
FAQs
What is another way to say “according to” in formal writing?
You can use phrases like as stated by, as per, or based on.
Is “per” correct instead of “according to”?
Yes, “per” is a short formal version used mostly in business communication.
Can I use these alternatives in speaking English?
Yes, but casual phrases like “from what he says” sound more natural in speech.
What is the easiest synonym for beginners?
“Based on” is the easiest and most flexible alternative.
Which phrase is best for academic writing?
“As indicated by” and “according to the findings of” are best for academic use.
Conclusion
Learning other ways to say “according to” helps you improve both your speaking and writing skills.
Instead of repeating the same phrase, you can choose from many alternatives depending on tone and situation.
Some are formal for business, while others are simple for everyday conversation. By practicing these 14 expressions, you will sound more natural, confident, and fluent in English communication.
Try using different phrases in your next email, essay, or conversation.
Olivia Harper is a passionate writer dedicated to simplifying word meanings and helping readers improve their vocabulary with clear and easy explanations.
