When writing an essay, it is crucial to properly cite and reference sources to support your arguments and give credit to the original authors. One common phrase used for this purpose is “according to.” In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express the meaning of “according to” in an essay, providing you with numerous tips and examples along the way.
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The Formal Ways to Say “According to” in an Essay
In academic writing, maintaining a formal tone is essential for credibility and professionalism. Here are some formal alternatives to using the phrase “according to” in your essays:
1. States/Indicates/Claims
One way to convey the meaning of “according to” is by using alternative verbs that denote a statement or claim. For example:
Smith (2019) states that climate change is a pressing global issue.
The study indicates that regular exercise improves overall well-being (Brown, 2020).
Jones (2018) claims that social media has a significant impact on teenagers’ mental health.
2. Suggests/Proposes/Posits
Another way to express the meaning of “according to” is by using words that suggest an idea or hypothesis. Consider these examples:
The research suggests that the consumption of sugary drinks leads to weight gain (Johnson, 2017).
According to a recent study, the new drug proposes a potential cure for Parkinson’s disease (Anderson, 2019).
Doe (2020) posits that the current education system lacks focus on creativity and critical thinking skills.
3. Argues/Contends/Asserts
To express the idea of “according to” when highlighting someone’s argument or point of view, consider using words like:
Smith (2018) argues that increased gun control is necessary to reduce crime rates.
According to the author’s viewpoint, technology contends that it brings people closer together (Johnson, 2020).
Miller (2019) asserts that social inequality remains a persistent issue in modern society.
4. Affirms/Confirms/Verifies
If you want to express the sense of validation or support for a particular statement, try using words like:
The latest research affirms that a healthy diet is essential for longevity (Lee, 2021).
According to the study, the experiment’s results confirm the hypothesis (Hall, 2020).
The data verifies the researcher’s previous findings (Gonzalez, 2019).
The Informal Ways to Say “According to” in an Essay
In some informal essays or when quoting directly, you might prefer a less formal tone. Here are some alternatives to consider:
1. Says/States/Mentions
An informal way to express the meaning of “according to” is by using simple verbs such as:
The professor says that studying regularly improves academic performance.
The article states that technological advancements have revolutionized various industries.
The survey mentions that most participants prefer online shopping over traditional methods.
2. According to/Per
For a more conversational tone, you can use the phrases “according to” or “per” in your sentences:
According to experts, the stock market may experience a decline in the coming months.
Per the latest reports, the company’s profits have significantly increased.
Students often struggle with exam stress according to recent studies.
Regional Variations
In general, the use of “according to” or its alternatives doesn’t significantly vary by region. However, some minor regional variations may exist. For example, in British English, the verb “states” might be replaced with “states that” or “states as follows.” In American English, the phrase “as per” is common in informal contexts.
Tips for Proper Usage
To ensure effective usage of these alternatives to “according to” in your essays, consider the following tips:
- Cite your sources: Always provide proper citations when referring to external sources, whether in a formal or informal manner. This strengthens the credibility of your essay.
- Use varied alternatives: Avoid repetitive language and choose different alternatives to express the meaning of “according to” throughout your essay. This adds variety and interest to your writing.
- Contextual relevance: Select the alternative verb or phrase that best suits the context of your essay. Consider the connotations and nuances of each option to convey the desired meaning accurately.
- Consult style guides: If you are unsure about which alternative to use or any other aspect of writing, consult reputable style guides such as APA, MLA, or Chicago to ensure proper usage and formatting.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of expressing the meaning of “according to” in your essays is essential for effective and persuasive academic writing. By using the formal and informal alternatives provided in this comprehensive guide, you will be able to convey your ideas with clarity and credibility. Remember to cite your sources accurately and maintain a consistent tone throughout your essay. Happy writing!
