📚 SYNONYMINS • WORD FINDER
Finding the right words can make your writing sound more natural, professional, and precise. While “according to” is one of the most useful phrases in English, repeating it too often can make your writing feel predictable. Fortunately, there are many other ways to say according to, depending on whether you are writing an email, report, blog post, academic paper, social media caption, or casual message.
Other ways to say “according to” include “as stated by,” “as reported by,” “based on,” “as noted by,” “in the words of,” and “as per.”
Choosing the right alternative is important because each expression carries a slightly different tone and meaning. Some sound formal and academic, while others are better suited to workplace communication or everyday conversation. Learning these alternatives can help you avoid repetition, improve sentence variety, and communicate information more effectively.
Whether you need a professional synonym for “according to,” a casual alternative, or a polished phrase for formal writing, this guide provides practical options with examples and usage advice.
What Does “According To” Mean?
“According to” is used when you are presenting information, opinions, facts, or statements that come from a particular person, organization, source, or piece of evidence.
For example:
According to the manager, the meeting will begin at 10 a.m.
Here, the speaker is making it clear that the information comes from the manager.
The phrase can also mean “in agreement with” or “based on,” depending on the context.
According to the latest report, sales increased by 15%.
In this sentence, the information is based on the report.
Because “according to” is versatile, the best replacement depends on exactly what you want to communicate.
Formal Other Ways to Say According To
Formal alternatives are useful in academic writing, research papers, reports, official documents, journalism, and professional correspondence.
1. As Stated By
Meaning: Introduces information that someone has explicitly said or written.
Tone: Formal and authoritative.
Best use cases: Reports, academic writing, official emails, presentations.
Example:
As stated by the director, all employees must complete the training by Friday.
Usage warning: Use this when the source actually made a clear statement. Do not use it simply because the information comes indirectly from that person.
2. As Reported By
Meaning: Indicates that information has been reported by a person, organization, publication, or news source.
Tone: Formal and journalistic.
Best use cases: News articles, research, reports, blogs.
Example:
As reported by the local newspaper, the company plans to open three new branches.
Usage warning: This phrase works best when the source has formally reported or published the information.
3. As Noted By
Meaning: Refers to an observation, comment, or point made by someone.
Tone: Formal and polished.
Best use cases: Academic writing, essays, reports, professional documents.
Example:
As noted by the researcher, the results require further investigation.
Usage warning: “As noted by” often sounds more analytical than conversational.
4. As Observed By
Meaning: Introduces an observation made by someone.
Tone: Formal and analytical.
Best use cases: Research papers, scientific writing, professional reports.
Example:
As observed by several analysts, consumer behavior has changed significantly.
Usage warning: Use it when the source actually observed something rather than merely stated an opinion.
5. In Accordance With
Meaning: In agreement with a rule, policy, instruction, or standard.
Tone: Very formal.
Best use cases: Legal writing, policies, business documents, official communication.
Example:
The procedure was completed in accordance with company policy.
Usage warning: This is not always a direct synonym for “according to.” It usually refers to following or complying with something.
6. In the Words of
Meaning: Uses the exact or recognizable words of a person.
Tone: Formal to literary.
Best use cases: Essays, speeches, articles, biographies.
Example:
In the words of the author, “Success requires consistent effort.”
Usage warning: When using someone’s exact words, quotation marks may be necessary.
7. As Documented By
Meaning: Indicates that information is supported by a written or recorded source.
Tone: Formal and evidence-based.
Best use cases: Reports, research, workplace documentation.
Example:
As documented by the medical team, the procedure was completed successfully.
Usage warning: Use this only when the information is actually documented.
8. As Indicated By
Meaning: Shows that something is supported or suggested by evidence.
Tone: Formal and analytical.
Best use cases: Research, reports, business writing.
Example:
As indicated by the survey results, customers prefer shorter delivery times.
Usage warning: This phrase is better for evidence or signs than for direct quotations.
Professional and Business Alternatives to According To
Professional communication often requires language that is polished without sounding unnecessarily complicated.
9. Based On
Meaning: Shows that information, a decision, or conclusion comes from particular evidence or information.
Tone: Professional and natural.
Best use cases: Emails, reports, presentations, workplace communication.
Example:
Based on the latest figures, we should adjust our sales forecast.
Usage warning: “Based on” describes the foundation of a conclusion, so it is not interchangeable with “according to” in every sentence.
10. As Per
Meaning: In accordance with or following something previously mentioned.
Tone: Businesslike and formal.
Best use cases: Workplace emails, instructions, business correspondence.
Example:
As per your request, I have attached the revised proposal.
Usage warning: “As per” is common in business English, especially in South Asian English, but some US and UK readers may find it overly bureaucratic.
11. Per
Meaning: According to a particular source, rule, instruction, or amount.
Tone: Concise and professional.
Best use cases: Business writing, instructions, data, workplace communication.
Example:
Per the client’s request, we updated the delivery schedule.
Usage warning: “Per” can sound abrupt in casual conversation.
12. In Line With
Meaning: Consistent with or following a policy, plan, expectation, or standard.
Tone: Professional.
Best use cases: Business emails, reports, corporate communication.
Example:
The new pricing structure is in line with current market conditions.
Usage warning: It usually means “consistent with,” rather than simply “according to a source.”
13. As Confirmed By
Meaning: Refers to information that someone has verified or confirmed.
Tone: Professional and precise.
Best use cases: Emails, customer service, workplace communication.
Example:
As confirmed by the supplier, the shipment will arrive tomorrow.
Usage warning: Use this only when the information has actually been confirmed.
14. As Recommended By
Meaning: Introduces advice or a recommendation from a particular person or source.
Tone: Professional.
Best use cases: Business, healthcare communication, customer support, reports.
Example:
As recommended by our consultant, we should update the website navigation.
Usage warning: This implies a recommendation, so it should not replace “according to” when simply reporting a fact.
15. As Specified By
Meaning: Indicates that something follows a specific requirement or instruction.
Tone: Formal and professional.
Best use cases: Contracts, technical documents, workplace instructions.
Example:
The equipment was installed as specified by the manufacturer.
Usage warning: This phrase suggests a specific specification or requirement.
16. As Required By
Meaning: Indicates that an action is necessary because of a rule, policy, law, or requirement.
Tone: Professional and formal.
Best use cases: Legal documents, workplace policies, official emails.
Example:
Employees must complete the form as required by company policy.
Usage warning: It expresses obligation, so it should not be used merely to identify a source.
Informal and Casual Ways to Say According To
In everyday conversation, you usually do not need formal phrases. Natural alternatives can make your speech and messages sound more relaxed.
17. From What I Hear
Meaning: Indicates information received indirectly from other people.
Tone: Casual.
Best use cases: Conversations, text messages, informal social media.
Example:
From what I hear, they’re moving to a new office next month.
Usage warning: This suggests that the information may not be completely verified.
18. From What I Understand
Meaning: Introduces information based on your current understanding.
Tone: Casual to neutral.
Best use cases: Conversations, emails, workplace discussions.
Example:
From what I understand, the deadline has been moved to Monday.
Usage warning: This phrase signals that you may not have complete information.
19. As I Understand It
Meaning: Means “based on my understanding.”
Tone: Natural and conversational.
Best use cases: Conversation, emails, workplace communication.
Example:
As I understand it, the new system will be available next week.
Usage warning: It expresses your interpretation rather than presenting an independently verified fact.
20. From What I’ve Heard
Meaning: Introduces information you heard from another source.
Tone: Informal.
Best use cases: Conversation, texting, social media.
Example:
From what I’ve heard, the restaurant is opening this weekend.
Usage warning: Avoid this expression in formal reports when stronger evidence is available.
21. Going By
Meaning: Means “judging from” or “using something as the basis.”
Tone: Casual.
Best use cases: Conversation, informal writing.
Example:
Going by the latest numbers, we should finish the project on time.
Usage warning: It can sound too conversational for academic or highly formal writing.
22. If You Go By
Meaning: Refers to using a particular piece of information as a basis for judgment.
Tone: Casual.
Best use cases: Conversations, online discussions, informal messages.
Example:
If you go by the reviews, this seems like a good place to eat.
Usage warning: It is informal and should generally be avoided in formal reports.
Friendly and Creative Alternatives to According To
Sometimes you want to sound warm, engaging, or conversational while still identifying a source.
23. In Their View
Meaning: Introduces someone’s opinion or perspective.
Tone: Friendly and neutral.
Best use cases: Blogs, conversations, articles, social media.
Example:
In their view, remote work offers employees more flexibility.
Usage warning: Use this for opinions or perspectives, not objective facts.
24. In Their Experience
Meaning: Introduces information based on someone’s personal experience.
Tone: Friendly and conversational.
Best use cases: Interviews, blogs, social media, conversations.
Example:
In her experience, customers respond better to simple explanations.
Usage warning: Personal experience should not automatically be presented as universal evidence.
25. From Their Perspective
Meaning: Presents information from someone’s particular point of view.
Tone: Friendly, neutral, and thoughtful.
Best use cases: Articles, interviews, discussions, workplace communication.
Example:
From their perspective, the change could make the process easier.
Usage warning: This emphasizes perspective rather than factual authority.
26. As They Put It
Meaning: Introduces someone’s own way of expressing an idea.
Tone: Conversational and engaging.
Best use cases: Blogs, articles, interviews, speeches.
Example:
As she put it, the project was “a learning experience.”
Usage warning: Use this when you are referring to someone’s wording or characterization.
27. In Their Words
Meaning: Signals that an idea is being presented using someone’s own wording.
Tone: Friendly to literary.
Best use cases: Articles, interviews, storytelling, social media.
Example:
In his words, the experience completely changed his approach to leadership.
Usage warning: If you quote someone exactly, make sure the quotation is accurate.
28. From What They Say
Meaning: Refers to information based on someone’s statements.
Tone: Casual and natural.
Best use cases: Conversation, blogs, social media.
Example:
From what they say, the new product should be available soon.
Usage warning: This wording can sound less authoritative than “as reported by.”
29. Judging By
Meaning: Indicates that a conclusion is based on evidence or appearances.
Tone: Neutral and conversational.
Best use cases: Conversation, blogs, reviews, social media.
Example:
Judging by the customer feedback, the new design is working well.
Usage warning: This implies an interpretation or conclusion rather than a direct report.
30. Going By the Information
Meaning: Indicates that a conclusion is based on available information.
Tone: Neutral and conversational.
Best use cases: Workplace discussion, conversation, informal writing.
Example:
Going by the information we have, the launch should still happen this month.
Usage warning: It can sound less precise when used in highly technical or academic writing.
Tone Comparison: Formal vs. Professional vs. Casual vs. Friendly
The best alternative to “according to” depends heavily on your audience.
Formal
Use formal expressions when accuracy, authority, and professionalism are important.
Good choices include:
- As stated by
- As reported by
- As noted by
- As indicated by
- As documented by
- In accordance with
Example:
As indicated by the research findings, further testing is necessary.
Professional
Professional language should be clear and polished without sounding excessively academic.
Good choices include:
- Based on
- Per
- As per
- As confirmed by
- As recommended by
- In line with
Example:
Based on the latest sales figures, we should revise our strategy.
Casual
Casual alternatives work best when talking with friends, coworkers, or online audiences.
Good choices include:
- From what I hear
- From what I’ve heard
- As I understand it
- Going by
- Judging by
- From what they say
Example:
From what I’ve heard, the event was a huge success.
Friendly and Creative
For blogs, storytelling, interviews, and engaging content, try:
- In their view
- In their experience
- From their perspective
- As they put it
- In their words
Example:
As she put it, the experience taught her to never underestimate preparation.
Quick Comparison Table of Alternatives
| Alternative | Tone | Best Use | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| As stated by | Formal | Reports | As stated by the manager, the office will close early. |
| As reported by | Formal | News and articles | As reported by the media, the event attracted thousands. |
| As noted by | Formal | Academic writing | As noted by the researcher, more data is needed. |
| Based on | Professional | Business | Based on the results, we changed our strategy. |
| As per | Professional | Emails | As per your request, the document is attached. |
| Per | Professional | Workplace | Per the agreement, payment is due Friday. |
| As confirmed by | Professional | Emails | As confirmed by the supplier, delivery is tomorrow. |
| In line with | Professional | Business | The policy is in line with industry standards. |
| From what I hear | Casual | Conversation | From what I hear, the store is closing. |
| From what I’ve heard | Casual | Social media | From what I’ve heard, the movie is excellent. |
| As I understand it | Casual | Conversation | As I understand it, the meeting starts at noon. |
| Judging by | Neutral | Discussion | Judging by the results, the plan worked. |
| In their view | Friendly | Opinion writing | In their view, the change is beneficial. |
| As they put it | Friendly | Articles | As they put it, the process was surprisingly easy. |
Choosing the Right Alternative to “According To”
Not every synonym works in every situation. Before replacing “according to,” consider what kind of information you are presenting.
If you are reporting someone’s exact statement, choose “as stated by,” “in their words,” or “as they put it.”
If you are reporting information from a publication, “as reported by” is usually a strong choice.
If you are using evidence to reach a conclusion, “based on” or “judging by” may be better.
If you are following a policy or rule, use “in accordance with,” “as required by,” or “as specified by.”
If you are sharing someone’s opinion, try “in their view” or “from their perspective.”
If you are speaking casually, “from what I’ve heard” or “as I understand it” may sound much more natural.
Real-Life Usage Examples
Email Example
Instead of:
According to your request, I have attached the updated document.
Try:
As requested, I have attached the updated document.
Or:
As per your request, I have attached the updated document.
For a natural professional email, “as requested” is often shorter and cleaner than repeating “according to.”
Workplace Example
Instead of:
According to the latest sales data, we need to change our strategy.
Try:
Based on the latest sales data, we need to change our strategy.
“Based on” works particularly well because the sales data is the foundation for the decision.
Customer Support Example
Instead of:
According to our records, your order was shipped yesterday.
Try:
Our records show that your order was shipped yesterday.
This version is direct, professional, and customer-friendly.
Social Media Example
Instead of:
According to people online, this restaurant is amazing.
Try:
From what I’ve heard, this restaurant is amazing.
The casual alternative fits the conversational nature of social media.
Blog Writing Example
Instead of repeatedly writing:
According to experts…
Try:
Experts suggest…
Researchers have found…
Industry analysts report…
As noted by several specialists…
Using different structures improves readability and prevents repetitive writing.
Academic Writing Example
Instead of repeatedly using:
According to the study…
Try:
The study indicates that…
The researchers found that…
The findings suggest that…
As noted in the research…
These structures can make academic writing more sophisticated while keeping the meaning clear.
Cultural Notes: US, UK, and Global English
The expression “according to” is widely understood in American, British, Australian, Canadian, and international English. However, some alternatives have different levels of popularity depending on the region.
American English
In US English, phrases such as “based on,” “per,” “as stated by,” and “as reported by” are common in professional writing.
For example:
Per the agreement, payment is due on Friday.
“Per” is especially common in workplace and business communication.
British English
British English also uses “according to,” “based on,” “as stated by,” and “in accordance with.” “As per” is understood, although its use can sometimes sound bureaucratic or formal.
Global and South Asian English
“As per your request” is particularly common in Indian and Pakistani workplace English. It is widely understood in international business contexts, but some native English speakers may prefer simpler alternatives such as:
As requested, I have attached the document.
or:
As you requested, I have attached the document.
For international communication, simple language is often the safest choice.
Common Mistakes When Replacing “According To”
Using a synonym with a different meaning
Not every alternative means exactly the same thing.
For example:
According to the manager, the project is complete.
means the manager provided the information.
But:
Based on the manager, the project is complete.
sounds unnatural because “based on” generally refers to evidence or reasoning.
Using informal language in formal writing
Phrases such as “from what I hear” can be perfectly natural in conversation but inappropriate in a formal research paper.
Overusing “as per”
“As per” is grammatically acceptable, but using it repeatedly can make business writing sound stiff.
Instead of:
As per your email, as per our policy, and as per the agreement…
vary your sentence structures.
Forgetting the source
When reporting important information, identify the source clearly.
Weak:
According to some people, the plan will work.
Stronger:
According to the project managers, the plan is expected to reduce costs.
Specific sources make writing more credible.
How to Avoid Repeating “According To” in Your Writing
Repetition is one of the easiest ways to make otherwise good writing feel mechanical. You can avoid it by changing the sentence structure rather than simply replacing the phrase.
Instead of:
According to researchers, sleep improves concentration.
Write:
Researchers have found that sleep improves concentration.
Instead of:
According to the report, customer satisfaction increased.
Write:
The report shows that customer satisfaction increased.
Instead of:
According to experts, the market is changing.
Write:
Experts suggest that the market is changing.
Instead of:
According to the latest data, sales increased.
Write:
The latest data indicates that sales increased.
These alternatives are often more direct and powerful than simply replacing “according to” with another prepositional phrase.
More Natural Sentence Structures
One of the best ways to improve your writing is to eliminate the phrase completely when possible.
Source-focused structure
The report states that sales increased by 20%.
Research-focused structure
Researchers found that participants preferred the new design.
Evidence-focused structure
The available evidence suggests that the policy was effective.
Opinion-focused structure
Experts believe that the industry will continue to grow.
Record-focused structure
Our records show that the payment was processed yesterday.
These structures make writing concise while clearly identifying where the information comes from.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best other ways to say “according to”?
Some of the most useful alternatives are “as stated by,” “as reported by,” “as noted by,” “based on,” “as per,” “per,” “in the words of,” “from what I’ve heard,” and “as I understand it.” The best choice depends on your tone and context.
What is a professional way to say “according to”?
Professional options include “based on,” “as confirmed by,” “as stated by,” “as per,” “per,” “as recommended by,” and “in line with.”
What is a formal way to say “according to”?
For formal writing, consider “as stated by,” “as reported by,” “as noted by,” “as indicated by,” “as documented by,” or “in accordance with.”
What is a casual way to say “according to”?
Casual alternatives include “from what I hear,” “from what I’ve heard,” “as I understand it,” “going by,” and “judging by.”
Is “as per” the same as “according to”?
Sometimes, but not always. “As per” usually means “in accordance with” or “following,” particularly when referring to a request, instruction, policy, or agreement. “According to” is broader and can introduce information from a person or source.
Can I use “based on” instead of “according to”?
Often, but the meaning can change. “Based on” emphasizes the evidence or information used to reach a conclusion, while “according to” usually identifies the source of information.
What is the best alternative for academic writing?
Academic writing often benefits from expressions such as “as noted by,” “as reported by,” “researchers found,” “the study indicates,” “the findings suggest,” and “evidence suggests.” These options can be more precise than repeatedly using “according to.”
Is “per” formal or informal?
“Per” is generally professional and concise. It is common in business communication, contracts, instructions, and workplace emails, although it may sound too abrupt in casual conversation.
How can I avoid saying “according to” repeatedly?
Change the sentence structure. Use phrases such as “the study shows,” “researchers found,” “experts suggest,” “the report indicates,” or “our records show.” This improves variety without forcing a synonym into every sentence.
Final Thoughts on Other Ways to Say According To
Knowing other ways to say according to can make your communication more flexible, natural, and effective. While “according to” remains a perfectly correct and useful expression, repeating it too often can make writing sound monotonous.
For formal writing, alternatives such as “as stated by,” “as reported by,” “as noted by,” and “as indicated by” can provide a more polished style. In professional communication, “based on,” “as confirmed by,” “per,” and “as per” are useful choices. For casual conversations, expressions such as “from what I’ve heard,” “as I understand it,” and “judging by” sound more natural. For friendly or creative writing, “in their view,” “from their perspective,” and “as they put it” can add personality.
The key is not simply to memorize synonyms. Instead, learn what each expression communicates and choose the phrase that matches your audience, purpose, and tone.
The next time you find yourself typing “according to” for the third or fourth time, pause and consider whether another structure would communicate your idea more clearly. Practice these alternatives in emails, essays, workplace messages, blog posts, and everyday conversations.
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