…によると
…ni yoru to
In Japanese, "according to" is expressed as …によると (…ni yoru to).
The phrase …によると is used to mean "based on …" when you are citing a source of information.
Meaning: based on statement (prep)
Which one should you use?
While …によると refers to a source of information, the phrase …に従って is used to mean "according to" in the sense of following a rule, instruction or a specific pattern.
How does it change in a sentence?
This phrase is typically used at the beginning of a sentence or clause to introduce the source of information. When using …によると to report information, the sentence often ends with a hearsay construction such as …そうだ to complete the thought.
How do you pronounce it?
…ni yoru to
Did you know?
- The root verb in …によると is よる, which also means 'to lean on' or 'to depend on', suggesting that the information is 'leaning' on a specific source.
- Japanese speakers use the word 次第 to express 'according to' specifically when the outcome depends on the timing or result of another event.
- Because …によると signals hearsay, using it without a speculative ending like …そうだ can make a speaker sound unintentionally arrogant or overly certain.
Examples in context
- 報告書によると、来季経済は成長する見込みです。According to the report, the economy is expected to grow next quarter.
- 友達の言葉によると、その映画は本当に良かったらしい。According to my friend, the movie was really good.
- 聞いた話によると、コンサートのチケットは数分で完売したらしい。According to what I heard, the concert tickets sold out within minutes.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “according to” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
