As a writer who edits content daily, I can confidently say one thing: repeating too often weakens your writing. Readers feel it, and search engines do too. That’s why learning alternatives to the word according to is a smart move for better communication skills, sentence variety, and clear writing.
In this guide, I’ll share 30+ natural and easy alternatives according to, explained in simple human English.
Each word is practical, beginner-friendly, and useful for writing, academic work, blogs, and professional content. I’ve used these in real writing projects, so this advice comes from experience, not theory.
What Does “According To” Mean?
The phrase “according to” is used to cite a source, reference information, or indicate someone’s opinion or statement. It helps show where information comes from or who said it. For example, you could write, “According to Ethan Matthews, regular practice is key to improving skills,” which clearly attributes the statement to the author.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “According To”?
Yes, “according to” is both professional and polite. It is widely used in articles, reports, emails, presentations, and academic writing to reference information respectfully and clearly. Using this phrase helps your communication appear credible and well-informed, making it suitable for both casual and formal professional contexts.
Alternatives to the Word “According To”
- Based on
- As per
- In line with
- According to research
- According to experts
- As stated by
- As reported by
- As mentioned by
- In the opinion of
- From the view of
- Per
- On the basis of
- As explained by
- As suggested by
- As indicated by
- As confirmed by
- As described by
- As cited by
- As noted by
- In agreement with
- Following
- In reference to
- With reference to
- As outlined by
- As shown by
- As claimed by
- As observed by
- As concluded by
- According to data
- According to reports
- As supported by
- As revealed by
- As determined by
- From research
- In compliance with
1. Based on
Explanation:
Based on shows that information comes from facts, data, or experience. It sounds natural and works well in most writing styles.
Usage Examples:
- Based on research, this method works well.
- Based on my experience, this tool is helpful.
- The plan was based on facts.
- Based on feedback, changes were made.
- Based on results, the strategy improved.
When to Use: Use when referring to evidence, data, or real experience.
When Not to Use: Avoid when giving a pure personal opinion.
2. As Per
Explanation:
As per is common in formal writing, business emails, and official documents.
Usage Examples:
- As per the report, sales increased.
- As per company rules, phones are banned.
- As per instructions, submit today.
- As per policy, refunds are limited.
- As per schedule, the event starts at 10.
When to Use: Use in professional or legal contexts.
When Not to Use: Avoid casual conversation or storytelling.
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3. In Line With
Explanation:
In line with means something agrees with rules, plans, or expectations.
Usage Examples:
- The decision is in line with company goals.
- Results are in line with expectations.
- His actions are in line with the plan.
- Policies are in line with laws.
- This update is in line with user needs.
When to Use: Use when showing agreement or consistency.
When Not to Use: Avoid when ideas do not match clearly.
4. According to Research
Explanation:
This phrase adds authority and supports trustworthy content.
Usage Examples:
- According to research, sleep improves focus.
- According to research, reading boosts learning.
- According to research, habits shape success.
- According to research, stress affects health.
- According to research, exercise improves mood.
When to Use: Use when citing studies or findings.
When Not to Use: Avoid if no real research exists.
5. As Stated By
Explanation:
As stated by credits a source or person clearly.
Usage Examples:
- As stated by the author, practice matters.
- As stated by the report, costs increased.
- As stated by experts, planning helps.
- As stated by the guide, follow steps.
- As stated by officials, rules changed.
When to Use: Use when quoting or referencing someone.
When Not to Use: Avoid when no clear source is mentioned.
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6. According to Experts
Explanation:
According to experts, it adds authority and trust to your writing. It shows that the information is backed by people who know the topic.
Usage Examples:
- According to experts, early sleep improves memory.
- According to experts, this software boosts productivity.
- According to experts, hydration is essential for health.
- According to experts, learning a language daily helps.
- According to experts, exercise reduces stress.
When to Use: Use when citing qualified professionals or specialists.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you cannot identify the expert clearly.
7. As Reported By
Explanation:
As reported by is common in journalism or factual writing. It references sources like news or official statements.
Usage Examples:
- As reported by the BBC, elections were postponed.
- As reported by authorities, the event was canceled.
- As reported by local media, floods damaged roads.
- As reported by scientists, pollution levels dropped.
- As reported by the survey, most users are satisfied.
When to Use: Use when referencing news articles, surveys, or reports.
When Not to Use: Avoid in opinion-based writing.
8. As Mentioned By
Explanation:
As mentioned by, it is perfect for highlighting points made by someone earlier in text, speech, or writing.
Usage Examples:
- As mentioned by the speaker, teamwork is key.
- As mentioned by the guide, safety comes first.
- As mentioned by the author, consistency matters.
- As mentioned by the teacher, practice improves skills.
- As mentioned by the CEO, innovation drives growth.
When to Use: Use when referring to previously stated information.
When Not to Use: Avoid when the source did not mention it.
9. In the Opinion of
Explanation:
In the opinion of introducing a personal or professional viewpoint. It’s useful in essays or formal commentary.
Usage Examples:
- In the opinion of doctors, diet affects mental health.
- In the opinion of economists, inflation will rise.
- In the opinion of teachers, reading daily helps.
- In the opinion of engineers, this design is efficient.
- In the opinion of critics, the movie is average.
When to Use: Use when sharing professional or personal viewpoints.
When Not to Use: Avoid absolute facts.
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10. From the View of
Explanation:
From the view of offers a perspective. It’s slightly less formal than “in the opinion of” and works in storytelling or analysis.
Usage Examples:
- From the view of students, exams are stressful.
- From the view of historians, the event was crucial.
- From the view of parents, screen time is a concern.
- From the view of users, the app is simple.
- From the view of teachers, group work is effective.
When to Use: Use when highlighting perspectives or experiences.
When Not to Use: Avoid presenting objective data or statistics.
11. Per
Explanation:
Per is short, formal, and professional. It is common in documents, emails, and reports.
Usage Examples:
- Per company policy, leave requests must be approved.
- Per the instructions, the assignment is due Monday.
- Per regulations, masks are mandatory.
- Per the survey, users prefer online payments.
- Per the agreement, terms cannot change.
When to Use: Use in formal writing, contracts, and rules.
When Not to Use: Avoid casual conversation.
12. On the Basis of
Explanation:
On the basis of is formal and shows that a decision or conclusion comes from facts, analysis, or evidence.
Usage Examples:
- On the basis of data, we updated the plan.
- On the basis of performance, she was promoted.
- On the basis of experience, he made the right choice.
- On the basis of reviews, the product is trusted.
- On the basis of results, we decided to expand.
When to Use: Use for data-driven or logical conclusions.
When Not to Use: Avoid casual opinions or guesses.
13. As Explained By
Explanation:
As explained by introducing a clarification or detailed description from someone else.
Usage Examples:
- As explained by the teacher, fractions are easy to learn.
- As explained by the manager, the new policy applies to all.
- As explained by the guide, the path is safe.
- As explained by the author, characters symbolize hope.
- As explained by the doctor, vitamins support immunity.
When to Use: Use when referring to clarifications or expert explanations.
When Not to Use: Avoid if no one has explained it.
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14. As Suggested By
Explanation:
As suggested by is used when someone gives a recommendation or advice. It works well in professional writing, blogs, and articles.
Usage Examples:
- As suggested by the expert, drink more water daily.
- As suggested by the coach, stretch before exercise.
- As suggested by the teacher, revise notes weekly.
- As suggested by the consultant, reduce costs carefully.
- As suggested by the doctor, get enough sleep.
When to Use: Use when sharing advice, tips, or guidance from someone credible.
When Not to Use: Avoid it if it’s your own opinion or unverified advice.
15. As Indicated By
Explanation:
As indicated by points to evidence, signals, or signs that support a statement. It’s slightly more formal than casual alternatives.
Usage Examples:
- As indicated by the survey, most people prefer online learning.
- As indicated by the trend, sales are rising.
- As indicated by the test, results are improving.
- As indicated by the data, energy use decreased.
- As indicated by the report, mistakes are minimal.
When to Use: Use when referring to trends, evidence, or data points.
When Not to Use: Avoid opinions or guesses without proof.
16. As Confirmed By
Explanation:
As confirmed by shows verification or validation from a reliable source. It adds credibility.
Usage Examples:
- As confirmed by the manager, the meeting is rescheduled.
- As confirmed by the lab results, the solution is safe.
- As confirmed by experts, this strategy works.
- As confirmed by the survey, customers are satisfied.
- As confirmed by authorities, the site is secure.
When to Use: Use when referring to verified facts or official confirmation.
When Not to Use: Avoid if the information is uncertain or speculative.
17. As Described By
Explanation:
As described by references, a detailed account or description given by someone else.
Usage Examples:
- As described by the author, the city was vibrant.
- As described by the guide, the trail is safe.
- As described by the witness, the event was chaotic.
- As described by the teacher, the experiment is simple.
- As described by the manual, the device works efficiently.
When to Use: Use for visual or narrative explanations.
When Not to Use: Avoid when no one has clearly described the subject.
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18. As Cited By
Explanation:
As cited by is used in academic writing or reports to reference a source or author.
Usage Examples:
- As cited by Smith (2022), climate change is accelerating.
- As cited by the report, urban pollution is high.
- As cited by the study, exercise reduces stress.
- As cited by the guide, safety rules are mandatory.
- As cited by the researcher, results were conclusive.
When to Use: Use in academic, research, or data-driven writing.
When Not to Use: Avoid casual or opinion pieces.
19. As Noted By
Explanation:
As noted by draws attention to observations, facts, or statements by a source.
Usage Examples:
- As noted by the teacher, practice is essential.
- As noted by the scientist, the experiment succeeded.
- As noted by the guide, precautions must be taken.
- As noted by the study, students performed well.
- As noted by the manager, deadlines are strict.
When to Use: Use when highlighting important observations.
When Not to Use: Avoid if the information is unsourced.
20. In Agreement With
Explanation:
In agreement with shows alignment or consistency with ideas, rules, or opinions.
Usage Examples:
- The decision is in agreement with company policy.
- His actions are in agreement with the plan.
- The report is in agreement with prior findings.
- The approach is in agreement with ethical standards.
- The proposal is in agreement with guidelines.
When to Use: Use when showing consistency or alignment.
When Not to Use: Avoid when there is conflict or disagreement.
21. Following
Explanation:
Following refers to something that comes after instructions, guidelines, or examples. It’s clear and simple for formal or semi-formal writing.
Usage Examples:
- Following the guidelines, the team completed the project.
- Following the instructions, she assembled the kit.
- Following the expert’s advice, we revised the plan.
- Following the data, we adjusted the strategy.
- Following the schedule, the event started on time.
When to Use: Use when describing actions based on rules, advice, or data.
When Not to Use: Avoid when the action is unrelated to instructions or guidance.
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22. In Reference To
Explanation:
In reference to is used to connect your statement to a source, topic, or previous discussion.
Usage Examples:
- In reference to the report, improvements are needed.
- In reference to your email, I have attached the files.
- In reference to the study, conclusions were updated.
- In reference to regulations, safety is mandatory.
- In reference to previous events, changes were applied.
When to Use: Use when linking your text to a source or topic.
When Not to Use: Avoid if no source or prior context exists.
23. With Reference To
Explanation:
With reference to is very similar to “in reference to,” mostly used in formal or professional writing.
Usage Examples:
- With reference to your query, here is the answer.
- With reference to the document, please follow instructions.
- With reference to the survey, users prefer online tools.
- With reference to the guidelines, actions were taken.
- With reference to prior meetings, updates are included.
When to Use: Use in formal emails, reports, or documentation.
When Not to Use: Avoid casual writing or storytelling.
24. As Outlined By
Explanation:
As outlined by highlights the structure, plan, or main points provided by someone.
Usage Examples:
- As outlined by the manager, tasks must be completed by Friday.
- As outlined by the author, the steps are simple.
- As outlined by the guidelines, safety is priority.
- As outlined by the expert, results are expected in a week.
- As outlined by the study, data is consistent.
When to Use: Use when summarizing structured points from a source.
When Not to Use: Avoid if the source did not provide a clear outline.
25. As Shown By
Explanation:
As shown by evidence, data, or demonstration. It makes statements more credible.
Usage Examples:
- As shown by the survey, most users are satisfied.
- As shown by the data, sales improved.
- As shown by the graph, trends are positive.
- As shown by the results, changes were effective.
- As shown by the experiment, the method works.
When to Use: Use when referring to observable proof or evidence.
When Not to Use: Avoid if no evidence or demonstration exists.
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26. As Claimed By
Explanation:
As claimed, it indicates a statement made by someone. It can show opinion or assertion, but may require caution.
Usage Examples:
- As claimed by the CEO, profits will rise.
- As claimed by the company, the product is eco-friendly.
- As claimed by the author, the process is simple.
- As claimed by the witness, the event was unusual.
- As claimed by experts, this method works best.
When to Use: Use when quoting someone’s statement.
When Not to Use: Avoid verified facts without proof.
27. As Observed By
Explanation:
As observed by highlights noted patterns, actions, or results from a credible source.
Usage Examples:
- As observed by teachers, students perform better with feedback.
- As observed by scientists, temperatures are rising.
- As observed by the manager, deadlines are being missed.
- As observed by researchers, habits affect productivity.
- As observed by the guide, the path is safe.
When to Use: Use for noting patterns, behaviors, or evidence.
When Not to Use: Avoid if the observation is not made by a source.
28. As Concluded By
Explanation:
As concluded by is used when someone has analyzed data or evidence and made a conclusion.
Usage Examples:
- As concluded by the study, early sleep improves focus.
- As concluded by the report, efficiency increased.
- As concluded by researchers, exercise reduces stress.
- As concluded by experts, habits shape success.
- As concluded by the review, products meet standards.
When to Use: Use for evidence-based conclusions.
When Not to Use: Avoid when the conclusion is personal opinion only.
29. According to Data
Explanation:
According to data shows that a statement is backed by numbers, statistics, or facts.
Usage Examples:
- According to data, sales increased by 20%.
- According to data, user engagement improved.
- According to data, most people prefer online learning.
- According to data, energy consumption dropped.
- According to data, error rates decreased.
When to Use: Use when citing numbers or measurable evidence.
When Not to Use: Avoid if you have no real data.
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30. According to Reports
Explanation:
According to reports, it is used in news, research, or documentation to cite sources or findings.
Usage Examples:
- According to reports, the event was successful.
- According to reports, new policies were implemented.
- According to reports, the product is in demand.
- According to reports, traffic has decreased.
- According to reports, users prefer mobile apps.
When to Use: Use when referring to written or official sources.
When Not to Use: Avoid when you don’t have a report to cite.
31. As Supported By
Explanation:
As supported by is used to show that a claim or statement is backed by evidence, facts, or expert opinion. It strengthens credibility in writing.
Usage Examples:
- As supported by research, meditation reduces stress.
- As supported by data, sales increased last quarter.
- As supported by the report, the method is effective.
- As supported by experts, proper sleep improves memory.
- As supported by studies, exercise boosts energy levels.
When to Use: Use when referencing evidence, studies, or expert support.
When Not to Use: Avoid if there is no factual or expert support.
32. As Revealed By
Explanation:
As revealed by is perfect for showing that information comes from discoveries, investigations, or studies.
Usage Examples:
- As revealed by the study, students perform better with feedback.
- As revealed by the survey, most users prefer mobile apps.
- As revealed by research, habits affect productivity.
- As revealed by the experiment, the solution is safe.
- As revealed by experts, diet affects health.
When to Use: Use when sharing findings, discoveries, or evidence.
When Not to Use: Avoid if no investigation or revelation exists.
33. As Determined By
Explanation:
As determined by indicates that a statement is the result of evaluation, analysis, or decision-making by a credible source.
Usage Examples:
- As determined by the committee, the project will continue.
- As determined by data, the strategy is effective.
- As determined by experts, the method is reliable.
- As determined by the survey, most users are satisfied.
- As determined by analysis, risks are minimal.
When to Use: Use when referring to decisions, evaluations, or factual conclusions.
When Not to Use: Avoid if there is no formal evaluation or authority.
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34. From Research
Explanation:
Research emphasizes that the information comes from scientific studies, surveys, or systematic analysis.
Usage Examples:
- From research, we know that exercise improves focus.
- From research, students learn better with visual aids.
- From research, habits can shape long-term success.
- From research, reading daily improves vocabulary.
- From research, sleep affects memory retention.
When to Use: Use when sharing verified findings from studies or analysis.
When Not to Use: Avoid if the source is unclear or unverified.
35. In Compliance With
Explanation:
In compliance with is formal and is used to show that something follows rules, laws, or standards. It’s often used in legal, business, or regulatory contexts.
Usage Examples:
- The project was completed in compliance with safety regulations.
- All operations are in compliance with company policy.
- The product is in compliance with environmental standards.
- Procedures were followed in compliance with government laws.
- Reports were submitted in compliance with guidelines.
When to Use: Use in formal, legal, or regulatory writing to show adherence to rules.
When Not to Use: Avoid in casual conversation or personal opinions.
Conclusion
Now that you have 30+ powerful alternatives to “according to”, you can take your writing to the next level. Using these synonyms not only improves vocabulary but also makes your content more engaging, credible, and human.
If you’re writing blogs, reports, essays, or social media posts, these phrases help you avoid repetition, boost reader trust, and enhance clarity. Start experimenting today!
Swap out according to options like based on, as stated by, or from research, and watch your writing sound smarter, fresher, and more professional. With these tips, you’ll also impress readers, rank better in Google, and create content that feels authoritative yet easy to read.
FAQs About Alternatives to the Word According To
What Can I Say Instead Of “According To”?
You can use alternatives like based on, as stated by, as reported by, from research, or in line with. These phrases make your writing more natural, credible, and professional.
What Is A Synonym For The Word Accordingly?
Synonyms for according include in agreement with, as per, on the basis of, and in compliance with. These are perfect for formal writing, academic content, or business reports.
What To Say Instead Of Btw?
Instead of btw, try by the way, just so you know, for your information, or incidentally. These options are clear, friendly, and professional in emails or messages.
What Is The Phrase According To?
The phrase according to is used to cite a source, reference data, or share someone’s opinion. It adds trustworthiness and authority. Example: “According to research, exercise improves focus.”
What Is Another Way To Say According To Me?
Instead of according to me, you can say in my opinion, from my perspective, as I see it, or in my view. These sound friendly, clear, and professional in both casual and formal writing.
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