“According to” is a commonly used phrase that expresses the source or reference of information. While it is widely understood and accepted, it’s always good to have alternative ways to convey the same meaning. In this guide, we will explore various formal and informal alternatives to “according to”. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Alternatives
When speaking or writing formally, it is important to use appropriate language to convey your message. Here are some alternative expressions for “according to” in formal contexts:
- As per – “As per” can be used to replace “according to” in formal situations. For example: “As per the latest report, the company’s revenue has increased.”
- In accordance with – This expression is often used in legal or technical contexts. For instance: “The decision was made in accordance with company policy.”
- Pursuant to – Often used in legal, administrative, or formal documents. For example: “Pursuant to section 5.2 of the contract, payment is due on the first of each month.”
- In line with – This alternative emphasizes agreement or adherence to something. For instance: “The company’s actions are in line with its commitment to sustainable practices.”
- In agreement with – This expression is suitable when there is consensus or alignment with a particular viewpoint. For example: “The committee members are in agreement with the proposed changes.”
Informal Alternatives
When speaking in informal settings or in casual conversations, using less formal language can make the conversation flow more naturally. Here are some alternative phrases for “according to” in informal contexts:
- Based on – This is a versatile and commonly used alternative. For instance: “Based on what she told me, the movie is worth watching.”
- According to sources – This gives a slight variation to the original phrase. For example: “According to sources, the event has been postponed.”
- As someone said – Use this when you want to attribute information to someone specific. For instance: “As Jane said, the new restaurant in town is amazing.”
- In someone’s words – This maintains a conversational tone while attributing ideas to someone. For example: “In John’s words, the project is bound to be a success.”
- Sources say – This is a more informal way to indicate the source of information. For instance: “Sources say that prices will increase in the coming months.”
Tips and Examples
Regardless of the alternative expression you choose, here are some tips to keep in mind when using these phrases:
1. Consider the context
It’s crucial to choose the alternative that best fits the context. Think about the formality of the situation, the audience, and the subject matter. This will help you determine whether a formal or informal alternative is most appropriate.
Example: In a legal document, it would be appropriate to use “pursuant to” rather than a more informal alternative like “based on”.
2. Vary your word choice
Using the same alternative repeatedly can make your writing sound monotonous. Try to mix it up by using different phrases and expressions to avoid redundancy.
Example: Instead of using the phrase “as per” multiple times in the same paragraph, you can alternate it with “in accordance with” or “in line with” to retain reader interest.
3. Clarify the source
Using alternative expressions for “according to” allows you to provide more information about the source of the information. Be sure to clarify the source to add more credibility and transparency to your writing.
Example: Instead of saying “According to a study,” you can rephrase it as “Based on a comprehensive study conducted by Harvard University.”
By employing these tips, you can effectively convey information while keeping your writing engaging and varied. Remember, language is a powerful tool, and using alternatives to “according to” adds flavor and depth to your expression.
