30 Other Ways to Say ‘According To’ (With Examples)

Finding the right words can completely change how your message is received. When we use phrases like “according to,” they can sometimes feel too formal, stiff, or distant. By choosing warmer and more thoughtful alternatives, you make your communication more engaging and relatable. Whether you’re writing professionally, academically, or casually, these options can help you connect better with your audience while still sounding accurate and respectful.

What Does “According To” Mean?

The phrase “according to” means presenting information, opinions, or authority from another person, group, or source. It’s commonly used in reports, research, news, or even everyday conversations to signal that what you’re sharing isn’t your personal view but is based on someone else’s statement or data.

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

Yes, “according to” is both professional and polite in most situations. It shows that you respect the original source. However, using it too often can make your writing repetitive, overly formal, or detached. This is why having alternatives allows you to express the same meaning while keeping your tone fresh, warm, or adapted to the context.

Pros or Cons of Using “According To”

Pros:

• Clear and straightforward.
  
• Works well in formal writing.
  
• Shows respect to the original source.
  

Cons:

• Can sound stiff or cold.
  
• May feel overused in reports or essays.
  
• Lacks variety in tone or expression.

Synonyms For ‘According To’ 

1. As Per
2. In Line With
3. On the Authority Of
4. In Accordance With
5. Stated By
6. Reported By
7. From the Perspective Of
8. As Mentioned By
9. By the Words Of
10. Cited By
11. Following
12. As Observed By
13. In the Words Of
14. Quoting
15. In the View Of
16. As Declared By
17. As Asserted By
18. Per the Statement Of
19. On the Word Of
20. Based On
21. Noted By
22. Confirmed By
23. Documented By
24. As Recorded In
25. Endorsed By
26. In Reference To
27. Supported By
28. Expressed By
29. Verified By
30. In the Opinion Of

1. As Per

Definition: Based on or in line with someone’s statement, rules, or instructions.

Detailed Explanation: Common in business or legal contexts, this phrase feels formal but concise.

Scenario Example: “As per the doctor’s advice, she is resting for two weeks.”

Best Use: Emails, reports, workplace instructions.

Tone: Formal, respectful.

Additional Notes: Works best in professional documents rather than casual speech.

2. In Line With

Definition: Matches or aligns with what was said or written.

Detailed Explanation: Slightly softer than “according to,” making it suitable for neutral or semi-formal contexts.

Scenario Example: “In line with company policy, all staff must attend the training.”

Best Use: Policies, rules, organizational communication.

Tone: Neutral, professional.

Additional Notes: Sounds collaborative rather than commanding.

3. On the Authority Of

Definition: Based on the recognized power or credibility of someone.

Detailed Explanation: Highlights the authority behind the statement rather than just the content.

Scenario Example: “On the authority of the principal, the event has been postponed.”

Best Use: When emphasizing the credibility of the source.

Tone: Strong, authoritative.

Additional Notes: Use sparingly; it may sound too rigid in casual settings.

4. In Accordance With

Definition: Following or consistent with a rule, law, or statement.

Detailed Explanation: Very common in legal, academic, and professional settings.

Scenario Example: “In accordance with safety regulations, helmets must be worn at all times.”

Best Use: Rules, contracts, official documents.

Tone: Formal, precise.

Additional Notes: Ideal when clarity and compliance are crucial.

5. Stated By

Definition: Words or information directly expressed by someone.

Detailed Explanation: Simple, clear, and works well in quotes or reports.

Scenario Example: “Stated by the minister, the reforms will start next month.”

Best Use: Journalism, reporting speeches, interviews.

Tone: Neutral, factual.

Additional Notes: Great for highlighting exact words from a source.

6. Reported By

Definition: Shared or published information from a source.

Detailed Explanation: Often used in journalism to indicate where the information came from.

Scenario Example: “Reported by CNN, the storm could last several days.”

Best Use: News, updates, public information.

Tone: Informative, objective.

Additional Notes: Works best when citing media outlets or third parties.

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7. From the Perspective Of

Definition: Expressing someone’s viewpoint or way of thinking.

Detailed Explanation: Warmer and more empathetic than “according to.”

Scenario Example: “From the perspective of teachers, the new curriculum is challenging.”

Best Use: Essays, discussions, empathy-driven communication.

Tone: Thoughtful, human-centered.

Additional Notes: Excellent for showing understanding of different viewpoints.

8. As Mentioned By

Definition: Refers to something previously said by a source.

Detailed Explanation: Works when you’re echoing or highlighting another person’s words.

Scenario Example: “As mentioned by our manager, teamwork is key to success.”

Best Use: Presentations, meetings, collaborative discussions.

Tone: Respectful, professional.

Additional Notes: Good for reinforcing credibility.

9. By the Words Of

Definition: Referring to the direct language someone used.

Detailed Explanation: Adds authenticity and personal touch to citations.

Scenario Example: “By the words of Gandhi, peace begins with a smile.”

Best Use: Quotes, motivational writing.

Tone: Inspirational, respectful.

Additional Notes: Feels warmer than “according to” when citing great figures.

10. Cited By

Definition: Information acknowledged in writing or research.

Detailed Explanation: Mostly academic or formal use.

Scenario Example: “Cited by Harvard research, the results show a clear pattern.”

Best Use: Academic papers, research.

Tone: Formal, credible.

Additional Notes: Strong for scholarly work but stiff for casual conversation

Conclusion

Choosing the right words is more than just swapping phrases—it’s about creating connection, warmth, and respect in communication. While “according to” is perfectly acceptable, using alternatives helps you adapt your tone, add variety, and resonate better with your audience. From formal terms like “in accordance with” to thoughtful ones like “from the perspective of,” these options allow you to communicate more meaningfully.