Definition of “According to”
“According to” is a prepositional phrase used to attribute a statement, idea, or opinion to a specific source. It indicates agreement with a reference point, adherence to a rule, or reliance on specific information.
Synonyms of “According to”
Strongest Matches:
- As per
- Based on
- In accordance with
- Consistent with
- In line with
Strong Matches:
- In keeping with
- As stated by
- As reported by
- As mentioned by
- As claimed by
Weak Matches:
- By the words of
- In the view of
- On the authority of
- From the perspective of
- In agreement with
Example Sentences Using “According to”
- According to the latest research, regular exercise improves mental health.
- The event was postponed according to the organizer’s announcement.
- According to company policy, all employees must complete the training.
- The results were interpreted according to the scientist’s hypothesis.
- According to legend, the treasure is buried beneath the old oak tree.
Contextual Usage of “According to”
- Academic Writing: “According to Smith (2021), climate change is accelerating at an alarming rate.”
- Legal Context: “According to the contract, payment must be made within 30 days.”
- News Reporting: “According to government officials, the new law will take effect next month.”
- Everyday Conversations: “According to my mom, I should eat more vegetables.”
- Business and Professional Communication: “According to the latest market trends, consumer demand is shifting toward sustainability.”
Related Words and Phrases
- In reference to
- As cited by
- As observed by
- As dictated by
- As conveyed by
- Conforming to
- In respect to
- Under the terms of
Additional Information
The phrase “according to” is commonly used to cite sources, attribute claims, and clarify the basis of a statement. It plays a crucial role in academic, professional, and casual discourse by ensuring credibility and proper attribution.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Incorrect: “The cake is good according my taste.”
- Correct: “The cake is good according to my taste.”
- Incorrect: “According to me, this is the best movie.”
- Correct: “In my opinion, this is the best movie.” (“According to” is not used for self-referencing.)
Disclaimer
This page is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, language usage may vary based on regional, contextual, and stylistic differences. Please consult authoritative sources for specific applications.
