Finding the right words in communication makes a huge difference. While “according to” is a commonly used phrase, sometimes it can feel too formal, repetitive, or lacking in warmth. Whether you’re writing an email, sharing information in a friendly way, or simply adding variety to your speech, exploring other ways to say “according to” can make your message feel personal, thoughtful, and natural.
This article offers 30 alternatives to “according to”, complete with scenarios, examples, tones, and explanations, so you can express yourself with more care and clarity.
What Does “According To” Mean?
The phrase “according to” is used when you want to refer to a source of information, rules, or someone’s opinion. It shows that what follows comes from another person, group, or authority—not just your own view.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “According To”?
Yes, using “according to” is professional, polite, and widely accepted in both formal and casual settings. However, in business communication, overusing it might sound repetitive or overly rigid. That’s why learning alternatives helps keep your tone fresh and suitable.
Pros or Cons
Pros:
- Clear and universally understood
- Works well in formal documents, reports, and academic writing
- Neutral in tone
Cons:
- Can sound too stiff in casual conversations
- Overuse might make writing repetitive
- Lacks warmth compared to more natural expressions
Synonyms For “According To”
- As Stated By
- Based On
- As Reported By
- Per
- In Line With
- As Per
- In Accordance With
- Following
- In Agreement With
- As Indicated By
- As Expressed By
- As Noted By
- As Mentioned By
- As Conveyed By
- In The Words Of
- As Highlighted By
- In Reference To
- Based Upon
- As Told By
- In Accordance With The View Of
- As Confirmed By
- As Established By
- As Pointed Out By
- As Observed By
- As Indicated In
- As Shared By
- As Declared By
- As Communicated By
- As Perceived By
- As Recognized By
1. As Stated By
Scenario: When you’re quoting someone directly in a professional or academic setting.
Examples:
- As stated by the manager, the deadline will be extended.
- As stated by the report, the results are promising.
- As stated by our teacher, the exam will cover three chapters.
Tone: Formal and respectful, best for professional or academic writing.
Explanation: This phrase emphasizes that the information directly comes from another person or authority, giving it credibility.
2. Based On
Scenario: When your information comes from evidence, facts, or data.
Examples:
- Based on the survey, most people prefer remote work.
- Based on the forecast, it might rain tomorrow.
- Based on her advice, we changed our strategy.
Tone: Neutral and professional, suitable for reports, presentations, or everyday communication.
Explanation: This phrase connects conclusions or actions directly to supporting evidence, making statements sound logical and credible.
3. As Reported By
Scenario: When referring to news, media, or third-party information.
Examples:
- As reported by the newspaper, the event was a success.
- As reported by the authorities, the road will remain closed.
- As reported by several sources, the launch date has been confirmed.
Tone: Factual and credible, often used in journalism or formal communication.
Explanation: Indicates that the information comes from a specific source, reinforcing reliability.
4. Per
Scenario: When you are summarizing official rules, instructions, or guidelines.
Examples:
- Per company policy, all employees must complete training.
- Per the doctor’s instructions, take the medicine twice a day.
- Per our agreement, the project deadline is fixed.
Tone: Formal and concise, often seen in professional or legal contexts.
Explanation: A short, efficient way to attribute information to a specific source or rule.
5. In Line With
Scenario: When aligning information with standards, rules, or recommendations.
Examples:
- In line with the new policy, we will update our procedures.
- In line with her guidance, we revised the report.
- In line with the guidelines, the project must follow safety measures.
Tone: Professional and polite, emphasizing agreement or compliance.
Explanation: Shows that the information or action is consistent with a referenced standard or authority.
6. As Per
Scenario: Formal writing or business communication, often interchangeable with “per.”
Examples:
- As per the manager, the meeting will start at 10 AM.
- As per the instructions, please submit the form by Friday.
- As per the schedule, the train departs at 6 PM.
Tone: Formal and businesslike, widely used in office communication.
Explanation: Reinforces the source of information and maintains a professional tone.
7. In Accordance With
Scenario: When following rules, laws, or regulations.
Examples:
- In accordance with the law, all taxes must be filed by April 15.
- In accordance with company policy, leave requests require approval.
- In accordance with her advice, we proceeded carefully.
Tone: Formal and official, suitable for legal or organizational contexts.
Explanation: Highlights compliance with authoritative rules or standards.
8. Following
Scenario: When taking action based on guidance, advice, or rules.
Examples:
- Following the doctor’s advice, he started a new diet.
- Following the instructions, we completed the setup.
- Following the guidelines, the event was organized safely.
Tone: Neutral, informative, and professional.
Explanation: Indicates actions or conclusions are based on prior guidance or instructions.
9. In Agreement With
Scenario: When your statement aligns with someone else’s opinion or policy.
Examples:
- In agreement with the committee, we postponed the event.
- In agreement with her suggestion, we chose a simpler design.
- In agreement with the report, the results were satisfactory.
Tone: Polite, collaborative, and professional.
Explanation: Shows consensus or shared understanding with the referenced source.
10. As Indicated By
Scenario: When referring to signs, data, or previous statements.
Examples:
- As indicated by the survey, customer satisfaction is high.
- As indicated by the report, profits have increased.
- As indicated by his behavior, he was upset.
Tone: Neutral, factual, and informative.
Explanation: Points to evidence or information that suggests a particular conclusion.
11. As Expressed By
Scenario: When referring to someone’s opinion or viewpoint.
Examples:
- As expressed by the author, honesty is crucial in leadership.
- As expressed by the teacher, patience improves learning.
- As expressed by the survey participants, flexibility is valued at work.
Tone: Thoughtful and reflective, good for personal or professional communication.
Explanation: Highlights someone’s feelings, opinions, or perspective respectfully.
12. As Noted By
Scenario: When referencing observations or documented remarks.
Examples:
- As noted by the inspector, safety standards were met.
- As noted by the scientist, the experiment needs repeating.
- As noted by the teacher, students improved their skills.
Tone: Professional, neutral, and credible.
Explanation: Indicates that the information is documented or recorded by someone else.
13. As Mentioned By
Scenario: When reminding or referring to prior statements.
Examples:
- As mentioned by the manager, the report is due Friday.
- As mentioned by the guide, the museum closes at 5 PM.
- As mentioned by the coach, practice starts at 6 AM.
Tone: Polite and conversational, suitable for casual or professional writing.
Explanation: Refers back to what someone has already said without sounding repetitive.
14. As Conveyed By
Scenario: When sharing someone’s message, intention, or advice.
Examples:
- As conveyed by the CEO, the project will expand next year.
- As conveyed by the instructor, clarity is key in communication.
- As conveyed by the report, progress is steady.
Tone: Formal, respectful, and professional.
Explanation: Emphasizes the communication of information clearly from the original source.
15. In The Words Of
Scenario: When quoting someone directly or capturing their voice.
Examples:
- In the words of the author, “Knowledge is power.”
- In the words of the manager, “Teamwork is our strength.”
- In the words of the scientist, “Research never stops.”
Tone: Thoughtful and human, often used in speeches or writing.
Explanation: Provides a direct and respectful way to quote someone verbatim.
Read More:30 Other Ways to Say ‘Please Let Me Know Your Thoughts’ (With Examples)
16. As Highlighted By
Scenario: When drawing attention to specific points or findings.
Examples:
- As highlighted by the study, exercise improves mental health.
- As highlighted by the teacher, revision is key for success.
- As highlighted by the article, sustainability is essential.
Tone: Informative, professional, and clear.
Explanation: Focuses on important points noted by another source.
17. In Reference To
Scenario: When pointing to a specific source, statement, or topic.
Examples:
- In reference to your email, the meeting is confirmed.
- In reference to the study, results were positive.
- In reference to her comment, we adjusted our plan.
Tone: Polite, neutral, and formal.
Explanation: Indicates the connection between your message and a previous source or topic.
18. Based Upon
Scenario: When deriving conclusions, decisions, or opinions.
Examples:
- Based upon the data, we adjusted our strategy.
- Based upon her feedback, improvements were made.
- Based upon the review, the product was redesigned.
Tone: Professional, neutral, and evidence-based.
Explanation: Shows that conclusions are drawn directly from the source or evidence.
19. As Told By
Scenario: When conveying information someone has personally shared.
Examples:
- As told by the guide, the path is safe for beginners.
- As told by the teacher, practice is essential.
- As told by the friend, the event was unforgettable.
Tone: Casual and friendly, good for storytelling or informal writing.
Explanation: Emphasizes personal communication from someone.
20. In Accordance With The View Of
Scenario: When showing alignment with someone’s opinion.
Examples:
- In accordance with the view of the committee, the plan was approved.
- In accordance with the view of the manager, training is mandatory.
- In accordance with the view of the expert, revisions are necessary.
Tone: Formal, respectful, and professional.
Explanation: Expresses agreement while attributing the perspective to the source.
21. As Confirmed By
Scenario: When verifying facts, statements, or findings.
Examples:
- As confirmed by the report, sales increased this quarter.
- As confirmed by the manager, the schedule is final.
- As confirmed by the doctor, the test results are normal.
Tone: Neutral, professional, and reliable.
Explanation: Signals that information has been verified or validated by an authority.
22. As Established By
Scenario: When referencing rules, traditions, or previous findings.
Examples:
- As established by the law, everyone must pay taxes.
- As established by the committee, the guidelines are mandatory.
- As established by research, regular exercise improves health.
Tone: Formal, professional, and authoritative.
Explanation: Indicates that something is grounded in prior rules, research, or authority.
23. As Pointed Out By
Scenario: When highlighting someone’s observation or insight.
Examples:
- As pointed out by the teacher, attention to detail matters.
- As pointed out by the report, the issue needs immediate attention.
- As pointed out by the reviewer, the essay lacked clarity.
Tone: Polite, constructive, and informative.
Explanation: Acknowledges someone’s insight or advice, giving credit.
24. As Observed By
Scenario: When referencing careful observation or study.
Examples:
- As observed by the scientist, the reaction was unexpected.
- As observed by the coach, practice improved performance.
- As observed by the researcher, participants responded positively.
Tone: Neutral, professional, and factual.
Explanation: Emphasizes findings derived from careful observation or analysis.
25. As Indicated In
Scenario: When referring to documents, charts, or sources.
Examples:
- As indicated in the report, revenue increased.
- As indicated in the guidelines, safety gear is mandatory.
- As indicated in the chart, sales are rising.
Tone: Formal and informative, suitable for writing and presentations.
Explanation: Refers to data or statements within a source, highlighting its evidence.
26. As Shared By
Scenario: When conveying information someone has communicated.
Examples:
- As shared by the teacher, the exam will be online.
- As shared by the friend, the event is postponed.
- As shared by the manager, feedback is appreciated.
Tone: Friendly and conversational, suitable for casual or semi-formal writing.
Explanation: Highlights the source of information in a warm, approachable way.
27. As Declared By
Scenario: When citing formal announcements or official statements.
Examples:
- As declared by the president, the policy is effective immediately.
- As declared by the committee, the results are final.
- As declared by the authorities, the area is safe.
Tone: Formal, authoritative, and official.
Explanation: Emphasizes a formal or public statement by an authority.
28. As Communicated By
Scenario: When sharing formal communication from someone.
Examples:
- As communicated by HR, the leave policy has been updated.
- As communicated by the manager, the meeting is rescheduled.
- As communicated by the teacher, homework is due tomorrow.
Tone: Professional, neutral, and polite.
Explanation: Shows that the information is coming from a deliberate communication or announcement.
29. As Perceived By
Scenario: When expressing someone’s personal perception or understanding.
Examples:
- As perceived by the audience, the speech was inspiring.
- As perceived by the team, the project timeline is challenging.
- As perceived by the client, the service exceeded expectations.
Tone: Reflective and thoughtful, often subjective.
Explanation: Highlights individual perception or interpretation of a situation.
30. As Recognized By
Scenario: When citing acknowledgment or acknowledgment by authority.
Examples:
- As recognized by the award committee, her work is exceptional.
- As recognized by the board, the policy was effective.
- As recognized by the teacher, the student improved significantly.
Tone: Formal, appreciative, and respectful.
Explanation: Indicates acknowledgment or validation by someone or some authority.
Conclusion
Using different ways to say “according to” helps your writing and speech feel more personal, precise, and professional. Depending on the context—formal, casual, professional, or friendly—you can choose a phrase that matches the tone, giving proper credit while keeping your message engaging and thoughtful.

Mia Rose is a skilled language expert with a deep passion for helping individuals master the art of writing and communication. With years of experience in the field, Marie brings a thoughtful and tailored approach to grammar, style, and language improvement. Her goal is to empower others to express themselves with clarity, precision, and confidence in every written word.












