30+ Other Ways to Say According To

Quick Answer
The phrase “according to” is used to reference information from a source or authority.
The five best alternatives are: as stated by (formal), based on (neutral/versatile), per (concise/formal), in line with (professional), and as mentioned by (casual/respectful) .

Finding the right words to attribute information in English can transform your communication from repetitive and robotic to engaging and precise. While “according to” remains a widely accepted phrase, understanding its alternatives allows you to adapt your language to any situation, whether you are drafting a formal report or having a casual conversation . This guide provides over 30+ Other Ways to Say According To, complete with tone classifications, real-life scenarios, and practical usage guidance.

Why People Search for Other Ways to Say According To

Users searching for “other ways to say according to” typically want to improve their vocabulary and avoid repetition in writing or speech. The search intent is primarily educational, with users looking for:

Alternatives to “according to” that match their specific context
Professional English phrases for workplace communication
Informal expressions in English for everyday conversation
Conversational English improvements to sound more natural

The search reflects a desire for tone awareness – users want to know which phrases sound more professional and which are best for spoken English versus writing .

Tone Ladder System

Understanding the tone of each alternative is crucial for choosing the right phrase for your situation. Here is how the alternatives rank:

Very Formal

Phrases reserved for legal documents, academic papers, and official policies. These emphasize strict adherence and authority .

Formal

Professional communication suitable for business reports, academic writing, and official correspondence. These phrases maintain respect while being clear .

Neutral

Versatile phrases that work in both professional and semi-formal contexts. These are the safest choices when you are unsure of the appropriate tone .

Casual

Phrases used in everyday conversations, friendly emails, and informal writing. These sound natural and approachable .

Informal

Phrases used in very relaxed settings with friends or close colleagues. These should be avoided in professional contexts .

Table: Tone Classification

Phrase	Tone Level	Formality	Best Situation
In accordance with	Very Formal	High	Legal/policy documents
On the authority of	Very Formal	High	Expert/legal citations
As per	Formal	High	Business/official instructions
Per	Formal	High	Policies/guidelines
As stated by	Formal	High	Direct quotations
In line with	Formal	Medium-High	Policy alignment
Based on	Neutral	Medium	Evidence-based statements
Following	Neutral	Medium	Instructional contexts
As reported by	Neutral	Medium	News/media citations
As indicated by	Neutral	Medium	Data/evidence references
As mentioned by	Casual	Medium-Low	Group discussions
As pointed out by	Casual	Medium-Low	Emphasizing observations
Based on what…said	Casual	Low	Everyday conversations
In the words of	Casual	Low	Quoting/creative writing
From what I’ve heard	Informal	Low	Casual sharing/hearsay

Quick Selection Guide

For a Job Interview → Use “as stated by” or “based on” for professional credibility
For a Professional Email → Use “per” or “as per” for concise, respectful communication
For Networking Events → Use “as mentioned by” or “as pointed out by” to show attentiveness
For Casual Conversation → Use “based on what…said” or “from what I’ve heard” for a natural tone

Real-Life Conversation Transformations

Job Interview Scenario

Before (Using “according to” repeatedly):
“According to my previous manager, I was a top performer. According to the company report, our team exceeded targets. According to my performance reviews, I received excellent feedback.”

After (Professional Alternatives):
“As stated by my previous manager, I was consistently a top performer. Based on the company report, our team exceeded annual targets. As indicated by my performance reviews, I received excellent feedback throughout my tenure.”

Networking Event Scenario

Before:
“According to the speaker, the industry is changing. According to several professionals I’ve spoken with, remote work is here to stay.”

After (Engaging Variations):
“As highlighted by the speaker, the industry is undergoing significant changes. As mentioned by several professionals I have connected with, remote work is clearly here to stay.”

Email Scenario

Before:
“According to your request, I have attached the documents. According to company policy, all forms must be submitted by Friday.”

After (Professional Email):
“Per your request, I have attached the documents. In accordance with company policy, all forms must be submitted by Friday.”

Casual Conversation Scenario

Before:
“According to Sarah, the movie is great. According to the reviews, it won several awards.”

After (Natural Conversation):
“Based on what Sarah said, the movie is fantastic. From what I have heard, it even won several awards.”

As Stated By

Meaning: Refers directly to what someone has already said or declared .

Explanation: This phrase emphasizes that the information comes directly from another person or authority, giving it credibility and respect. It is slightly softer than “according to” but retains professionalism.

Example: “As stated by the manager, the deadline will be extended.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Professional reports, workplace communication, direct quotations

Worst Use: Casual settings where it might feel too rigid

Context Variability: Works well in written and spoken formal contexts; may sound overly stiff in casual conversations .

Based On

Meaning: Indicates that information comes from evidence, facts, or data .

Explanation: This versatile phrase connects conclusions directly to supporting evidence, making statements sound logical and credible. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Example: “Based on the survey, most people prefer remote work.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Reports, presentations, everyday communication

Worst Use: When you need to emphasize authority rather than evidence

Context Variability: One of the most versatile alternatives, working across all contexts .

As Per

Meaning: Means “in accordance with” and emphasizes alignment with instructions or guidelines .

Explanation: Combines “as” with “per” to create a concise, formal expression. It is widely used in business and commercial settings, especially when referencing specific requests or deadlines .

Example: “As per the manager’s instructions, the meeting will start at 10 AM.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Business communication, official instructions, specific requests

Worst Use: Casual conversations where it may sound overly formal

Context Variability: Best for professional contexts; may appear stiff in informal settings .

Per

Meaning: A shortened version of “as per,” meaning “according to” or “in accordance with” .

Explanation: This concise alternative is efficient and professional, commonly used in business and legal contexts when summarizing rules or instructions.

Example: “Per company policy, all employees must complete the training.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Policies, guidelines, professional instructions

Worst Use: Casual conversations or informal writing

Context Variability: Very formal; best suited for written communication .

In Accordance With

Meaning: Means “in agreement with” or “following the guidance of” rules, laws, or regulations .

Explanation: This highly formal phrase emphasizes compliance with authoritative rules or standards. It is commonly used in contracts, policies, and legal documents .

Example: “In accordance with company policy, leave requests require approval.”

Tone: Very Formal

Best Use: Legal documents, policies, official reports

Worst Use: Personal or informal messages

Context Variability: Primarily written and official contexts; rarely used in speech .

In Line With

Meaning: Indicates agreement or consistency with standards, rules, or recommendations .

Explanation: Shows that the information or action is consistent with a referenced standard or authority. It is professional and polite, emphasizing compliance or agreement .

Example: “In line with the new policy, we will update our procedures.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Policy alignment, recommendations, guidance

Worst Use: Casual conversations

Context Variability: Best for professional and organizational contexts .

As Reported By

Meaning: Cites information that has been published or officially recorded .

Explanation: This phrase indicates that information comes from a specific source, reinforcing reliability. It is commonly used in journalism, research papers, or formal reports .

Example: “As reported by the newspaper, the event was a success.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Articles, formal emails, media references

Worst Use: Informal conversations or personal letters

Context Variability: Factual and credible; best for referencing third-party information .

As Mentioned By

Meaning: References a point that was raised earlier by someone .

Explanation: This friendly acknowledgment of another’s contribution is great for showing you were listening and giving credit. It is versatile and works in both professional and casual contexts .

Example: “As mentioned by Sarah, we will meet at 5 PM for dinner.”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Work meetings, group discussions, emails

Worst Use: Formal academic or legal writing

Context Variability: Works well in both spoken and written contexts .

As Indicated By

Meaning: Shows something has been pointed out or made evident by signs, data, or previous statements .

Explanation: Professional and factual, this phrase points to evidence that suggests a particular conclusion. It is neutral and credible .

Example: “As indicated by the survey, customer satisfaction is high.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Data analysis, reports, professional communication

Worst Use: Personal conversations

Context Variability: Best for factual, evidence-based contexts .

Following

Meaning: Indicates actions taken based on guidance, advice, or rules .

Explanation: This concise phrase suggests that the subsequent information is derived from a particular source or that actions follow prior guidance .

Example: “Following the doctor’s advice, he started a new diet.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Instructional contexts, guidance, advice

Worst Use: When you need to emphasize authority

Context Variability: Works in both formal and informal contexts .

In The Words Of

Meaning: Directly quoting or echoing how someone expressed something .

Explanation: Adds warmth by focusing on personal expression. This phrase is perfect for highlighting the beauty or significance of someone’s statement .

Example: “In the words of the author, ‘Knowledge is power.'”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Quotes, speeches, personal stories

Worst Use: Technical or statistical writing

Context Variability: Best for creative and inspirational contexts .

As Highlighted By

Meaning: Draws attention to specific insights or focus points made by someone .

Explanation: Acknowledges emphasis or importance given by another, showing respect and attentiveness. Great for professional presentations or coaching .

Example: “As highlighted by the study, exercise improves mental health.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Work presentations, coaching, teaching

Worst Use: Legal or strictly factual reports

Context Variability: Best for emphasizing important points .

As Pointed Out By

Meaning: Highlights an observation someone has made .

Explanation: A gentle way to emphasize another’s perspective and show appreciation. Works well in team settings and casual-professional conversations .

Example: “As pointed out by my colleague, teamwork is the key to success.”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Team settings, casual-professional conversations

Worst Use: Hard data or research citations

Context Variability: Best for acknowledging observations .

In Agreement With

Meaning: Shows alignment with someone else’s opinion or policy .

Explanation: Polite and collaborative, this phrase shows consensus with the referenced source. It indicates shared understanding .

Example: “In agreement with the committee, we postponed the event.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Collaborative decision-making, consensus building

Worst Use: When presenting opposing views

Context Variability: Best for collaborative contexts .

As Conveyed By

Meaning: Shares someone’s message, intention, or advice clearly .

Explanation: Emphasizes the communication of information clearly from the original source. It is formal, respectful, and professional .

Example: “As conveyed by the CEO, the project will expand next year.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Official communications, executive messages

Worst Use: Casual conversations

Context Variability: Best for formal communication channels .

Based Upon

Meaning: Derives conclusions, decisions, or opinions from evidence or data .

Explanation: Similar to “based on,” this phrase shows that conclusions are drawn directly from the source or evidence. It is professional and neutral .

Example: “Based upon the data, we adjusted our strategy.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Professional documents, strategic decisions

Worst Use: Casual conversation

Context Variability: Best for evidence-based contexts .

As Told By

Meaning: Conveys information someone has personally shared .

Explanation: Emphasizes personal communication from someone. This casual and friendly phrase is good for storytelling or informal writing .

Example: “As told by the guide, the path is safe for beginners.

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Storytelling, informal writing

Worst Use: Formal or academic contexts

Context Variability: Best for personal narratives .

As Expressed By

Meaning: Refers to someone’s opinion or viewpoint .

Explanation: This thoughtful and reflective phrase highlights someone’s feelings, opinions, or perspective respectfully. Good for personal or professional communication .

Example: “As expressed by the author, honesty is crucial in leadership.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Professional communication, opinion pieces

Worst Use: Factual reporting

Context Variability: Best for opinion-oriented contexts .

On The Authority Of

Meaning: A strong statement backed by an official source .

Explanation: Signals credibility and power, suitable when a decision or fact comes from a high-level source. Very formal and authoritative .

Example: “On the authority of the city council, the park will remain closed.”

Tone: Very Formal

Best Use: Legal, medical, government documents

Worst Use: Informal or casual conversations

Context Variability: Best for authoritative, official contexts .

As Observed By

Meaning: Credits someone for noticing or identifying something .

Explanation: Respectful and shows attention to detail. Emphasizes observation and awareness .

Example: “As observed by the teacher, students learn better with visuals.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Feedback, evaluations, discussions

Worst Use: Formal reports citing hard facts

Context Variability: Best for observational contexts .

In The Opinion Of

Meaning: Signals that what follows is someone’s personal view, not a universal fact .

Explanation: Useful for separating facts from subjective thoughts. Creates space for interpretation and acknowledges differing viewpoints .

Example: “In the opinion of the designer, brighter colors will improve the project’s appeal.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Debates, reviews, feedback

Worst Use: Presenting hard data or verified research

Context Variability: Best for subjective contexts .

Drawing From

Meaning: Suggests taking inspiration or information from a source .

Explanation: A softer and more creative alternative to “according to.” Works when blending personal experience with another’s knowledge .

Example: “Drawing from the author’s insights, we can see how resilience shapes success.”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Essays, creative writing, coaching

Worst Use: Legal documents or strict reports

Context Variability: Best for creative and reflective contexts .

As Suggested By

Meaning: Acknowledges someone’s advice or proposal .

Explanation: Shows openness to guidance and honors helpful recommendations. Polite and considerate .

Example: “As suggested by our trainer, let us start with small steps.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Professional advice, teamwork, recommendations

Worst Use: Academic or legal contexts where suggestion is irrelevant

Context Variability: Best for advisory contexts .

As Confirmed By

Meaning: Used when information has been verified or validated .

Explanation: Stronger than “according to” because it signals reliability and proof. Ideal when emphasizing that something is proven .

Example: “As confirmed by the doctor, recovery will take two weeks.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Reports, professional communication, medical/legal contexts

Worst Use: Personal conversations, casual chats

Context Variability: Best for verified information .

In Light Of What…Said

Meaning: Refers to considering information shared earlier .

Explanation: Suggests reflection and thoughtful response. Balances respect with open-mindedness .

Example: “In light of what the counselor said, we should prioritize rest.”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Guidance, coaching, reflective discussions

Worst Use: Quick, casual chats

Context Variability: Best for thoughtful discussions .

With Reference To

Meaning: A formal way to direct attention toward a source or subject .

Explanation: Professional and often used in correspondence. Common in letters and workplace documents .

Example: “With reference to your earlier message, we have updated the schedule.”

Tone: Formal

Best Use: Emails, formal letters, official reports

Worst Use: Friendly chats, casual notes

Context Variability: Best for formal correspondence .

From The Perspective Of

Meaning: Acknowledges someone’s viewpoint .

Explanation: Useful for recognizing different experiences or outlooks. Shows empathy and openness to diversity of thought .

Example: “From the perspective of a parent, the policy could be improved.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Discussions, debates, inclusive communication

Worst Use: Purely factual contexts

Context Variability: Best for diverse viewpoints .

By The Words Of

Meaning: Refers to the actual phrasing or wisdom shared by someone .

Explanation: A poetic and gentle way of giving credit to a speaker or writer. Works beautifully in literature, speeches, or motivational quotes .

Example: “By the words of Nelson Mandela, courage is not the absence of fear.”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Storytelling, motivational messages, speeches

Worst Use: Business reports or formal academic writing

Context Variability: Best for inspirational contexts .

Guided By

Meaning: Suggests direction or influence from someone’s words .

Explanation: A gentle and supportive alternative that reflects learning or growth from another’s guidance .

Example: “Guided by her advice, I decided to take the new opportunity.”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Personal growth stories, coaching, leadership messages

Worst Use: Strict academic or technical reports

Context Variability: Best for personal development contexts .

As Established By

Meaning: References rules, traditions, or previous findings .

Explanation: Indicates that something is grounded in prior rules, regulations, or established knowledge. Formal and authoritative .

Example: “As established by the law, everyone must pay taxes.”

Tone: Very Formal

Best Use: Legal documents, policies, established rules

Worst Use: Personal conversations

Context Variability: Best for established authority contexts .

As Perceived By

Meaning: Refers to someone’s perception or understanding .

Explanation: Acknowledges that information comes from someone’s viewpoint, which may be subjective. Good for discussions about perspectives .

Example: “As perceived by the audience, the performance was outstanding.”

Tone: Neutral

Best Use: Review, feedback, perception contexts

Worst Use: Factual reporting

Context Variability: Best for subjective perception contexts .

From What I’ve Heard

Meaning: An informal way to indicate secondhand information .

Explanation: Suggests that the information is based on hearsay rather than verified facts. Useful when you want to share information without asserting it as absolute truth .

Example: “From what I have heard, the restaurant is excellent.”

Tone: Informal

Best Use: Casual conversations, sharing rumors or hearsay

Worst Use: Professional or academic contexts

Context Variability: Best for casual, spoken contexts .

Based On What…Said

Meaning: Connects information directly to a person’s statement .

Explanation: A conversational way to attribute a message while sounding approachable and giving credit .

Example: “Based on what the coach said, practice will start earlier.”

Tone: Casual

Best Use: Everyday conversations, casual emails

Worst Use: Formal or academic writing

Context Variability: Best for spoken English and casual communication .

Table: Usage Comparison

Phrase	Spoken Use	Written Use	Context
In accordance with	Rare	Common	Legal/policy documents
As per	Occasional	Common	Business/official instructions
Based on	Very Common	Very Common	Versatile across all contexts
As reported by	Occasional	Common	Journalism/media references
As mentioned by	Very Common	Common	Meetings and group discussions
Per	Occasional	Common	Policies and guidelines
In line with	Occasional	Common	Policy alignment
Following	Common	Common	Instructional contexts
In the words of	Occasional	Occasional	Quotations and creative writing
From what I’ve heard	Very Common	Rare	Casual conversations

Email + LinkedIn Ready Expressions

Email Greetings

When opening professional emails, using alternatives to “according to” can set the right tone:

Very Formal:

“In accordance with your request, I have…”
“Per our previous discussion, I am writing to…”

Professional:

“As per your instructions, I have attached…”
“Based on our conversation, I wanted to…”

Friendly but Professional:

“As mentioned in my previous email, I…”
“Following up on your request, I have…”

Professional Introductions

When introducing yourself or your ideas in professional settings:

Job Applications:

“As stated by my previous employer, I consistently exceeded targets”
“Based on my experience in project management, I am confident…”

LinkedIn Connection Messages:

“As highlighted by your recent article on [topic], I would like to connect…”
“In line with your comments on [industry trend], I thought you might appreciate…”

Networking Introductions:

“As mentioned by our mutual colleague, [name], you are the expert on…”
“Based on the insights from your recent presentation, I wanted to…”

Follow-up Lines

Professional ways to reference previous communications:

“Per your request, I am following up on…”
“As previously mentioned, I wanted to circle back on…”
“In accordance with our discussion, I have…”
“Based on our earlier conversation, I am…”

Native Speaker Insight

Natural Native Usage Patterns

Native English speakers rarely use “according to” repeatedly. Instead, they vary their language based on context and relationship with the listener .

In professional settings, native speakers often prefer:

“Based on” for data-driven conversations
“Per” for quick, efficient communication
“As mentioned” for referencing previous discussions

Shortened Spoken Versions

In casual speech, native speakers often use shortened forms:

“Per” instead of “as per”
“Based on” without additional formality
“From what I heard” instead of “according to hearsay”

What Sounds Unnatural

Avoid these common mistakes:

“According to me” – This is grammatically incorrect and unnatural
Overusing “according to” – Repetition sounds robotic
Using “as per” in casual conversation – Sounds overly formal

Preferred Professional Alternatives

In professional contexts, native speakers gravitate toward:

“Based on” for its versatility
“Per” for its conciseness
“In line with” for policy alignment
“As stated by” for direct quotations

Common Mistakes + What Not To Say

Unnatural Phrases

“According to me” – This is the most common mistake. Always use “in my opinion” instead .
“According to the fact that” – Redundant and awkward. Use “based on” or “given that.”
“As per me” – Incorrect. Use “in my opinion” or “from my perspective.”

Tone Mismatch

Using “in accordance with” in casual conversation – Too formal for everyday speech
Using “from what I’ve heard” in a professional report – Too informal for formal documents
Using “as per” with friends – Sounds stiff and unnatural

Grammar Mistakes

Subject-verb agreement errors:

Incorrect: “According to the reports says…”
Correct: “According to the reports, …” or “As stated by the reports, …”

Preposition errors:

Incorrect: “In accordance to”
Correct: “In accordance with”

Over-formal or Awkward Usage

Too formal:
“On the authority of my colleague, I would like to…” – Too dramatic for everyday workplace communication

Just right:
“As mentioned by my colleague, I would like to…” – Professional and natural

Expansion Phrases

Greeting Variations

Professional alternatives to “according to” in greetings:

“In line with our discussion…”
“Following our conversation…”
“Based on your comments…”

Introduction Phrases

Ways to introduce ideas without “according to”:

“As you may know…”
“Drawing from…”
“With reference to…”

Polite Communication Alternatives

“May I suggest, based on…”
“I would like to reference…”
“In keeping with what was said…”

Conversational English Upgrades

“The way I understand it…”
“From what I gather…”
“If I am not mistaken…”

Table: Decision-Making Table

Situation	Best Phrase	Why It Works
Job Interview	As stated by	Professional and credible
Professional Email	Per	Concise and respectful
Networking	As mentioned by	Shows attentiveness
Casual Conversation	Based on what…said	Natural and friendly
Legal Document	In accordance with	Precise and authoritative
Data Analysis	Based on	Evidence-focused
Academic Writing	As indicated by	Factual and neutral
Creative Writing	In the words of	Expressive and personal
Business Meeting	In line with	Shows alignment
Social Media Post	From what I’ve heard	Casual and relatable

Quick Fast List

Top 10 best alternatives to “according to”:

As stated by – Formal, professional
Based on – Versatile, neutral
Per – Concise, professional
As per – Formal, business
In line with – Professional, aligned
As mentioned by – Casual, respectful
In accordance with – Very formal, legal
Following – Neutral, instructional
As reported by – Factual, credible
From what I’ve heard – Informal, conversational

Mini Quiz

Test your understanding of when to use different alternatives:

1. You are in a job interview and want to reference your previous manager’s feedback. Which phrase should you use?

A) From what I’ve heard
B) As stated by
C) In the words of
D) Based on what…said

Answer: B – “As stated by” is professional and credible for interview contexts .

2. You are writing a casual email to a colleague about a conversation you had yesterday. Which is most appropriate?

A) In accordance with
B) As per
C) As mentioned by
D) On the authority of

Answer: C – “As mentioned by” is casual yet respectful for workplace communication .

3. You are drafting a legal document that needs to reference company policy. Which is best?

A) Based on what…said
B) In accordance with
C) From my perspective
D) As told by

Answer: B – “In accordance with” is highly formal and precise, suitable for legal contexts .

4. You are at a networking event and want to reference a speaker’s point to show you were listening. What should you use?

A) As highlighted by
B) Per
C) According to me
D) In light of what…said

Answer: A – “As highlighted by” shows attentiveness and professionalism in networking .

5. You are sharing information you heard from a friend at a casual dinner party. Which is most natural?

A) As established by
B) From what I’ve heard
C) In accordance with the view of
D) As per

Answer: B – “From what I’ve heard” is perfect for casual, informal sharing .

FAQs

Is it polite to say “according to”?

Yes, “according to” is professional, polite, and widely accepted in both formal and casual settings. However, overusing it in business communication might sound repetitive or overly rigid. Learning alternatives helps keep your tone fresh and suitable .

What is more professional than “according to”?

More professional alternatives include “in accordance with” for legal contexts, “per” for concise professional communication, and “as stated by” for direct quotations. “Based on” is also very professional and versatile .

Can I use “as per” in an email?

Yes, “as per” is commonly used in professional emails, especially when referencing specific requests or instructions. However, be aware that it can sometimes sound overly formal. In recent years, “as per” has developed a slightly negative connotation in some contexts, so consider using “according to” or “per” instead .

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

Native speakers vary their language based on context. In professional settings, they use “based on,” “per,” and “as mentioned.” In casual conversations, they use “from what I’ve heard” and “based on what…said.” They rarely repeat “according to” multiple times in one conversation .

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

The best academic alternatives include “as indicated by,” “as stated by,” “based on,” and “in accordance with.” “As indicated by” is particularly useful when referencing data or evidence .

Conclusion

Mastering alternatives to “according to” significantly enhances your communication skills across all contexts. From formal legal documents requiring “in accordance with” to casual conversations where “from what I’ve heard” sounds perfectly natural, understanding tone and context is key to effective communication .

The 30+ alternatives provided in this guide offer you the flexibility to adapt your language to any situation. Practice using these alternatives in your daily conversations and writing. Pay attention to the tone ladder system and choose phrases that match your context. With consistent practice, choosing the right alternative to “according to” will become second nature, making your English communication more polished, engaging, and professional .