When it comes to expressing the phrase “according to,” it’s essential to have a range of formal and informal phrases in your language arsenal. Whether you’re writing a paper, having a conversation, or simply trying to convey information accurately, understanding these different ways of saying “according to” is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a variety of expressions and provide you with helpful tips and examples. Let’s begin!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “According to”
1. “Based on”
Example: According to the report, the project’s success is based on extensive market research.
2. “In accordance with”
Example: In accordance with the company’s policy, employees must submit their reports by Friday.
3. “As per”
Example: The CEO approved the budget, as per the recommendations of the finance department.
4. “Following”
Example: The new regulations were implemented following extensive consultation with industry experts.
Informal Ways to Say “According to”
1. “According to”
Example: According to Sarah, the party starts at 8 PM tonight.
2. “As said by”
Example: The weather report, as said by the meteorologist, predicts heavy rainfall tomorrow.
3. “Per”
Example: The website crashed, per feedback received from users.
4. “As mentioned by”
Example: The newspaper article, as mentioned by the journalist, highlights the importance of early education.
Variations of “According to” in Different Regions
In some regions, especially in informal conversations, people may use unique expressions that convey the same meaning as “according to.” Here are a few examples:
1. “As per usual” (commonly used in the United Kingdom)
Example: As per usual, John forgot to bring his homework to class.
2. “Word on the street” (commonly used in the United States)
Example: Word on the street is that the new restaurant serves amazing pizza.
3. “According to hearsay” (commonly used in many English-speaking regions)
Example: The movie is terrible, according to hearsay from those who have already seen it.
Tips for Using “According to” Effectively
1. Understand the context: Be aware of the situation in which you need to use the phrase “according to” to ensure it’s appropriate and relevant.
2. Check your sources: When presenting information, make sure to rely on credible and verifiable sources to give weight to your statements.
3. Vary your vocabulary: Avoid repetitive use of the phrase “according to” by incorporating its alternatives and variations discussed in this guide.
4. Use appropriate punctuation: When citing a source or adding information, ensure you use the appropriate punctuation, such as commas or quotation marks.
Tip: It’s always better to provide a clear reference when using “according to” to avoid confusion and to give due credit to your sources.
5. Practice active listening: When engaging in conversations, actively listen to others’ statements and recognize when someone is referring to another person’s opinion or information.
Examples of Using “According to”
1. Essay or research paper:
“According to recent studies, the consumption of organic produce has increased by 30%.”
2. Casual conversation:
“According to Jane, the new restaurant in town has the best burgers.”
3. News article:
“The team finished first in the tournament, according to the coach’s post-match interview.”
4. Business presentation:
“Based on industry forecasts, the sales of electric vehicles are expected to double by next year.”
By incorporating these phrases, variations, and tips into your language usage, you can effectively convey information while avoiding repetitive use of “according to.” Remember to adapt your choice of expression based on the context, formality, and regional variations, if necessary. Happy communicating!
