30+ Other Ways to Say According To In English | Improve Sentence Variety In 2026

Quick Answer:
Some of the best alternatives to “according to” include based on, as stated by, as reported by, in the opinion of, as per, under, per, following, in accordance with, and as noted by.

The best choice depends on whether you’re writing in an academic, professional, or conversational context.

Looking for 30+ other ways to say “According To” in English? While this phrase is commonly used to cite sources, introduce opinions, or reference information, repeating it can make your writing sound repetitive. In this guide, you’ll discover 30+ Other Ways to Say According To In English, complete with meanings, examples, and the best contexts for using each alternative in academic writing, business communication, journalism, and everyday conversations.

Why Do People Search For Other Ways to Say According To In English

People search for other ways to say according to for several practical reasons. Some are students or professionals trying to avoid repeating the same phrase in an essay, report, or research paper. Others are non native English speakers who want to sound more natural and fluent in spoken conversation. Many are content writers, business communicators, or job seekers who need professional English phrases for emails, presentations, and interviews.

There is also a clear difference between spoken and written usage. In spoken English, people often prefer shorter and more casual expressions like based on what I heard or from what I understand. In written English, especially academic or business writing, phrases like as per, as reported by, and in accordance with are preferred because they sound more precise and formal.

Understanding the difference between formal and informal communication intent is key here. A person writing a business proposal needs alternatives to according to that sound polished and credible. A person chatting with a friend simply wants informal expressions in English that sound relaxed and natural. This article covers both ends of that spectrum, along with everything in between, so you can confidently choose conversational English improvements that match your exact situation.

Tone Ladder System

Not every alternative to according to carries the same weight. Some phrases sound extremely formal and academic, while others are casual enough for everyday conversation. Understanding this tone ladder helps you avoid sounding either too stiff or too casual for the situation.

Very Formal Level

Phrases at this level are best used in legal documents, academic papers, and official reports. Examples include in accordance with and as stipulated by. These phrases sound precise but can feel heavy in everyday writing.

Formal Level

This level fits business emails, professional reports, and workplace communication. Phrases like as per, as stated by, and as indicated by fall here. They sound professional without being overly stiff.

Neutral Level

Neutral phrases work almost anywhere, from articles to presentations. Based on and as reported by are good examples. They are safe choices when you are unsure how formal the context needs to be.

Casual Level

These phrases suit everyday professional conversation, team chats, and informal emails. From what I understand and going by what X said are common at this level.

Informal Level

This is the most relaxed tier, used in spoken conversation among friends or close colleagues. Phrases like so I heard and apparently belong here.

For spoken English, casual and informal phrases sound more natural and less robotic. For writing, especially professional writing, formal and neutral phrases are usually the safer and more polished choice.

Table: Tone Classification of According to Alternatives

Quick Selection Guide

Choosing the right phrase becomes easy once you know the context. Use this quick guide to pick instantly.

For a Job Interview

Use as per my previous experience or based on what I learned in my last role. These sound confident and professional without being overly stiff.

For a Formal Email

Use as per your request or as indicated in the report. These phrases sound polished and are widely accepted in business communication.

For Networking

Use based on our conversation earlier or in line with what you mentioned. These keep the tone professional yet warm.

For Casual Conversation

Use from what I heard or apparently. These sound relaxed and match everyday spoken English.

Real Life Conversation Transformations

Seeing before and after examples makes it easier to understand how these alternatives work in real situations.

Job Interview Scenario

Before: According to my manager, I handled the project well. After: As per my manager’s feedback, I handled the project well.

The after version sounds more polished and interview appropriate, showing confidence without repeating the same overused phrase.

Networking Event Scenario

Before: According to what you said earlier, you work in marketing. After: Based on what you mentioned earlier, you work in marketing, right?

The revised sentence feels more conversational and natural for a networking setting.

Email Scenario

Before: According to the report, sales increased by 10 percent. After: As indicated in the report, sales increased by 10 percent.

This small shift makes the email sound more formal and suitable for professional correspondence.

Casual Conversation Scenario

Before: According to Sarah, the meeting got moved to Friday. After: So I heard from Sarah, the meeting got moved to Friday.

This version sounds far more natural when speaking casually with a coworker or friend.

30+ Other Ways to Say According To In English

Below is a complete list of alternatives to according to, each explained with meaning, example, tone, and best or worst use case. This is the core reference section, so bookmark it for repeated use across writing and speaking.

1. As Per

Meaning: In agreement with or following a rule, request, or document.

Explanation: “As per” is a formal expression commonly used in business communication and official writing to refer to instructions, agreements, or established guidelines.

Example Sentence: As per your instructions, the file has been updated.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Business emails, contracts, and official correspondence.

Worst Use: Casual conversations with friends, where it can sound overly formal.

Context Variability: Works best in written communication but may sound stiff in everyday speech.

2. Based On

Meaning: Using something as the foundation or source of information.

Explanation: “Based on” is a neutral and versatile phrase that works well when drawing conclusions from evidence, research, or facts.

Example Sentence: Based on the survey results, customers prefer faster delivery.

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Reports, presentations, essays, and professional discussions.

Worst Use: Highly technical legal documents requiring more precise wording.

Context Variability: Suitable for both spoken and written English.

3. As Reported By

Meaning: Information that has been stated or announced by a particular source.

Explanation: This phrase is frequently used in journalism and news writing to attribute information to a reliable source.

Example Sentence: As reported by the local news, the event was rescheduled.

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: News articles, media reports, and factual updates.

Worst Use: Personal or emotional conversations.

Context Variability: Most effective in written reporting and formal communication.

4. In Accordance With

Meaning: Following a rule, law, policy, or standard exactly.

Explanation: A highly formal phrase commonly used in legal, corporate, and policy documents.

Example Sentence: In accordance with company policy, all leave requests must be approved.

Tone: Very Formal

Best Use: Legal documents, HR policies, contracts, and compliance guidelines.

Worst Use: Everyday conversations.

Context Variability: Primarily used in formal writing.

5. As Stated By

Meaning: Directly expressed or mentioned by a person or source.

Explanation: This phrase precisely attributes a statement to its original speaker or source.

Example Sentence: As stated by the CEO, the company will expand next year.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Reports, presentations, and professional documents.

Worst Use: Informal texting or casual conversations.

Context Variability: Common in both formal speech and writing.

6. As Indicated By

Meaning: Shown or suggested by evidence, data, or another source.

Explanation: Often used when referring to statistics, charts, reports, or research findings.

Example Sentence: As indicated by the chart, revenue declined during the second quarter.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Academic papers, business reports, and data analysis.

Worst Use: Casual daily conversations.

Context Variability: Primarily suited to written communication.

7. In Line With

Meaning: Matching or being consistent with something.

Explanation: A professional phrase used to express alignment with policies, goals, or trends.

Example Sentence: In line with market trends, the company adjusted its pricing strategy.

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Business meetings, strategic discussions, and reports.

Worst Use: Casual conversations with friends.

Context Variability: Works naturally in both meetings and written documents.

8. As Per the Request of

Meaning: Following exactly what someone requested.

Explanation: A longer, more formal variation of “as per,” commonly used in business correspondence.

Example Sentence: As per the request of the client, the deadline was extended.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Client communication and official emails.

Worst Use: Informal text messages.

Context Variability: Mostly used in professional writing.

9. As Noted By

Meaning: Something that has been pointed out or observed by someone.

Explanation: Useful when referring to expert observations, reviews, or feedback.

Example Sentence: As noted by the reviewer, the design requires further improvement.

Tone: Neutral to Formal

Best Use: Reviews, evaluations, and professional reports.

Worst Use: Everyday casual conversation.

Context Variability: Common in academic and professional writing.

10. As Mentioned By

Meaning: Something previously said or referenced by someone.

Explanation: A simple and versatile phrase used to remind readers or listeners of earlier information.

Example Sentence: As mentioned by the trainer, consistent practice is the key to improvement.

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Meetings, training sessions, and presentations.

Worst Use: Strict legal documents.

Context Variability: Appropriate in both spoken and written English.

11. As Outlined By

Meaning: Explained in a structured or detailed way by someone.

Explanation: Frequently used when referring to procedures, plans, manuals, or guidelines.

Example Sentence: As outlined by the manual, safety inspections are mandatory.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Policies, manuals, and procedural documents.

Worst Use: Casual conversations.

Context Variability: Primarily used in written communication.

12. As Described By

Meaning: Explained or portrayed by a source.

Explanation: Refers to the way someone has characterized or explained a person, event, or situation.

Example Sentence: As described by the witness, the incident happened very quickly.

Tone: Neutral to Formal

Best Use: Reports, journalism, and legal writing.

Worst Use: Informal conversations.

Context Variability: Suitable for both spoken and written communication.

13. As Suggested By

Meaning: Recommended or implied by a source.

Explanation: Softer than “as stated by,” making it ideal when referring to advice or recommendations.

Example Sentence: As suggested by the doctor, she began exercising every morning.

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Recommendations, healthcare advice, and guidance.

Worst Use: Strict factual reporting.

Context Variability: Effective in both speech and writing.

14. In the Words of

Meaning: Using someone’s exact expression or quotation.

Explanation: Introduces a direct quote while adding a personal and memorable touch.

Example Sentence: In the words of the author, success requires patience.

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Speeches, essays, quotations, and presentations.

Worst Use: Technical reports with heavy data.

Context Variability: Common in storytelling and public speaking.

15. As Confirmed By

Meaning: Verified or proven true by a reliable source.

Explanation: Adds credibility and certainty to a statement by showing that it has been officially confirmed.

Example Sentence: As confirmed by the laboratory results, the treatment was effective.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Scientific, medical, and business writing.

Worst Use: Rumors or unverified information.

Context Variability: Strongly suited to factual writing.

16. As Documented By

Meaning: Officially recorded by a source.

Explanation: Indicates that written evidence or official documentation exists.

Example Sentence: As documented by the auditors, expenses remained within budget.

Tone: Very Formal

Best Use: Audits, official reports, and legal documentation.

Worst Use: Casual conversations.

Context Variability: Primarily used in formal written communication.

17. As Maintained By

Meaning: Consistently claimed or upheld by a person or organization.

Explanation: Suggests an ongoing belief, position, or argument.

Example Sentence: As maintained by the committee, the regulations remain unchanged.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Policy discussions, debates, and official statements.

Worst Use: Everyday conversations.

Context Variability: Most appropriate in professional writing and formal discussions.

18. As Observed By

Meaning: Noticed or witnessed by someone.

Explanation: Commonly used in scientific research, analytical writing, and observations.

Example Sentence: As observed by researchers, the pattern repeats every season.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Scientific reports and academic studies.

Worst Use: Informal conversations.

Context Variability: Primarily used in academic and professional writing.

19. As Revealed By

Meaning: Made known or uncovered by a source.

Explanation: Often introduces new, surprising, or previously unknown information.

Example Sentence: As revealed by the study, sleep has a significant impact on memory.

Tone: Neutral to Formal

Best Use: Research summaries, news articles, and presentations.

Worst Use: Everyday casual statements.

Context Variability: Effective in both written and spoken presentations.

20. As Recorded By

Meaning: Officially noted or logged by a source.

Explanation: Suggests that information has been documented or stored in an official record.

Example Sentence: As recorded by the system, the request was submitted before the deadline.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Technical documentation and operational reports.

Worst Use: Personal conversations.

Context Variability: Mostly found in written technical communication.

21. As Detailed By

Meaning: Explained thoroughly by a source.

Explanation: Indicates that complete or in-depth information has already been provided elsewhere.

Example Sentence: As detailed by the proposal, the project will require six months to complete.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Project proposals, reports, and business plans.

Worst Use: Short casual updates.

Context Variability: Mainly used in professional writing.

22. As Specified By

Meaning: Clearly defined or required by a source.

Explanation: Frequently appears in technical manuals, guidelines, and contracts.

Example Sentence: As specified by the guidelines, submissions must be under 500 words.

Tone: Very Formal

Best Use: Contracts, technical documentation, and compliance materials.

Worst Use: Everyday spoken English.

Context Variability: Almost exclusively used in formal writing.

23. As Asserted By

Meaning: Strongly claimed or stated by someone.

Explanation: Often used when referring to opinions or claims that may be debated.

Example Sentence: As asserted by the critic, the film lacked originality.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Academic writing, debates, and critical analysis.

Worst Use: Simple factual statements.

Context Variability: Common in formal discussions and scholarly writing.

24. As Highlighted By

Meaning: Emphasized or brought attention to by a source.

Explanation: Draws focus to an important finding, point, or observation.

Example Sentence: As highlighted by the report, customer satisfaction improved significantly.

Tone: Neutral to Formal

Best Use: Reports, presentations, and executive summaries.

Worst Use: Casual conversations.

Context Variability: Effective in both meetings and written communication.

25. As Pointed Out By

Meaning: Specifically identified or mentioned by someone.

Explanation: A natural yet professional way to attribute an idea or observation.

Example Sentence: As pointed out by my colleague, the timeline needs adjustment.

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Team discussions, meetings, and reports.

Worst Use: Highly formal legal documents.

Context Variability: Suitable for both spoken and written professional English.

26. In the Opinion of

Meaning: Reflecting someone’s personal view or judgment.

Explanation: Makes it clear that the statement expresses an opinion rather than an established fact.

Example Sentence: In the opinion of the review panel, the proposal requires additional detail.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Evaluations, reviews, and assessments.

Worst Use: Objective factual reporting.

Context Variability: Common in professional writing and formal presentations.

27. As Verified By

Meaning: Confirmed to be accurate by a trusted source.

Explanation: Adds credibility and reassurance by showing that the information has been checked.

Example Sentence: As verified by the technical team, the system is fully operational.

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Technical reports, quality assurance, and audits.

Worst Use: Casual assumptions or speculation.

Context Variability: Most common in technical and professional writing.

28. As Cited By

Meaning: Referenced or quoted by a source.

Explanation: Frequently used in academic writing to acknowledge the original source of information.

Example Sentence: As cited by the researcher, earlier studies support this theory.

Tone: Very Formal

Best Use: Research papers, academic journals, and scholarly writing.

Worst Use: Everyday conversations.

Context Variability: Primarily found in academic writing.

29. From What I Understand

Meaning: Based on your current understanding rather than confirmed fact.

Explanation: A polite and conversational way to introduce information that may still require confirmation.

Example Sentence: From what I understand, the meeting has been moved to Monday.

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Team chats, informal conversations, and workplace updates.

Worst Use: Legal or academic writing.

Context Variability: Common in spoken English and informal writing.

30. Apparently

Meaning: Seemingly true based on what has been heard, although not fully confirmed.

Explanation: A casual expression used to share secondhand information or rumors.

Example Sentence: Apparently, the office is closing early today.

Tone: Informal

Best Use: Casual conversations and friendly discussions.

Worst Use: Professional reports, legal documents, or academic writing.

Context Variability: Mostly used in spoken English and informal writing.

Table: Usage Comparison of According to Alternatives

Email and LinkedIn Ready Expressions

Professional communication often needs polished attribution phrases. Here are ready to use lines for emails and LinkedIn.

Email Greetings and Openers

As per our earlier discussion, I wanted to follow up on the project timeline. As indicated in your last email, I have made the requested changes.

Professional Introductions

Based on your profile, I believe our companies could collaborate effectively. As mentioned by a mutual connection, you are working on exciting projects in this space.

LinkedIn Connection Messages

I came across your profile based on our shared industry interest and would love to connect. As highlighted in your recent post, your insights on market trends were valuable.

Follow Up Lines

As per our conversation last week, I am checking in on the next steps. As discussed, I have attached the updated report for your review.

Native Speaker Insight

Native English speakers rarely use according to in casual conversation because it can sound stiff or overly formal for everyday talk. Instead, they naturally shift to shorter alternatives depending on the setting.

In spoken English, natural shortened versions are common, such as from what I heard or so they say instead of longer formal attributions. Phrases like as per are used almost exclusively in writing, particularly in emails and reports, and sound unnatural when spoken aloud in casual settings.

What sounds unnatural is using very formal phrases like in accordance with or as stipulated by during everyday conversation, since these belong strictly to legal or official contexts. The preferred professional alternative in most workplace speech is based on or as mentioned by, since they strike a natural balance between professionalism and ease.

Common Mistakes and What Not to Say

Many learners misuse these phrases by ignoring context or tone. Avoiding these mistakes will immediately improve your English fluency.

Using in accordance with in casual conversation is a common tone mismatch, since it sounds overly official for a simple chat among friends or coworkers.

Saying according to me is a frequent grammar mistake, since native speakers typically say in my opinion or from what I understand instead, because according to is meant for external sources, not personal opinions.

Overusing very formal phrases like as stipulated by or as documented by in everyday writing can make content sound robotic and disconnected from natural human communication.

Mixing tone levels within the same sentence, such as combining apparently with as per the official guidelines, creates an awkward and inconsistent tone that confuses the reader or listener.

Expansion Phrases

Beyond direct alternatives to according to, related expressions strengthen overall communication skills.

Greeting Variations

Nice to meet you, pleased to connect with you, great to finally speak with you.

Introduction Phrases

Allow me to introduce myself, I wanted to reach out regarding, I am reaching out based on.

Polite Communication Alternatives

Would it be possible to, I wanted to kindly follow up on, at your earliest convenience.

Conversational English Upgrades

That makes sense based on what you shared, this aligns with what was mentioned earlier, that matches what I understood from the discussion.

Table: Decision Making Table

Quick Fast List of Best Alternatives

1. As per
2. Based on
3. As reported by
4. In accordance with
5. As stated by
6. As indicated by
7. In line with
8. From what I understand
9. As mentioned by
10. Apparently

Mini Quiz

Question 1: Which phrase fits best in a legal document?

A) Apparently
B) In accordance with

Correct Answer: B) In accordance with

Explanation: “In accordance with” is the most appropriate choice because legal documents require formal, precise, and unambiguous language. “Apparently” is informal and expresses uncertainty, making it unsuitable for legal writing.

Question 2: Which phrase is most natural for a casual conversation with a friend?

A) As stipulated by
B) So I heard

Correct Answer: B) So I heard

Explanation: “So I heard” is relaxed, conversational, and commonly used in everyday speech. As stipulated by” is far too formal for casual conversations.

Question 3: Which phrase works best in a business email requesting confirmation?

A) As per your request
B) Apparently

Correct Answer: A) As per your request

Explanation: “As per your request” is professional, courteous, and commonly used in business emails when referring to a previous instruction or request. “Apparently” is too informal and does not fit a professional email.

Question 4: Which phrase is best for citing academic research?

A) As cited by
B) From what I understand

Correct Answer: A) As cited by

Explanation: “As cited by” is the best choice because it clearly attributes information to a reliable source, making it ideal for academic writing. “From what I understand” expresses personal interpretation rather than proper citation.

FAQs

Is it polite to say “according to” in professional writing?

Yes. “According to” is polite, clear, and widely accepted in professional writing. However, using alternatives such as “as per,” “as stated by,” or “as indicated by” can make your writing sound more polished and avoid repetition.

What is more professional than “according to”?

Professional alternatives include “as per,” “as indicated by,” “as stated by,” and “in accordance with.” These expressions are especially effective in business, legal, and formal documents where precision is important.

Can I use “as per” in an email?

Yes. “As per” is commonly used in professional emails when referring to previous instructions, requests, agreements, or discussions. It helps create a formal and business-appropriate tone.

What do native speakers say instead of “according to” in conversation?

In everyday conversation, native speakers often use phrases like “from what I heard,” “apparently,” “so I heard,” or “based on what I was told.” These alternatives sound more natural and conversational than the formal phrase “according to.”

What is the best alternative to “according to” in academic writing?

For academic writing, strong alternatives include “as cited by,” “as stated by,” “as indicated by,” and “as reported by.” These expressions clearly attribute information to credible sources while maintaining a formal scholarly tone.

Conclusion

Mastering alternatives to according to allows you to communicate with more precision, variety, and confidence across every setting, from formal reports to casual conversations. By understanding the tone ladder, from very formal phrases like in accordance with to relaxed expressions like apparently, you can match your language exactly to the situation and audience you are addressing.

Practicing these phrases in real conversations, emails, and written work will naturally improve your fluency and professionalism over time. The more you consciously choose the right phrase for the right context, the more natural and polished your English will become, whether you are writing a business report or simply chatting with a colleague.

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Caleb Dawson

Caleb Dawson is a content writer at synoseek.com, where he works on simple, reader-focused articles across a range of everyday topics. His writing style is practical and grounded, aiming to present information in a clear and relatable way without unnecessary complexity.