When writing or speaking, using the same phrases repeatedly can make your content feel dull or repetitive. One commonly overused phrase is “according to.” Whether you’re citing a source, referencing data, or attributing an opinion, there’s a wide range of alternatives that can enhance your communication and keep your audience engaged. In this article, we’ll explore 30 other ways to say “according to” — complete with examples and context to help you use them effectively. 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
Why Find Alternatives to “According To”?
Before diving into the list, it’s important to understand why you might want to switch things up: 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
- Improve readability: Varied language keeps your content fresh and easier to read.
- Match tone and formality: Some alternatives may suit academic, professional, or conversational contexts better.
- Avoid redundancy: Especially in reports or essays with multiple citations.
Ready to expand your vocabulary? Let’s go! 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
1. As Stated By
Use for: Formal or academic writing. 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
- As stated by the World Health Organization, regular exercise reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
2. As Per
Use for: Legal, professional, or formal documents
As per the employee handbook, all staff must complete compliance training by June.
3. Based On
Use for: Analytical writing or summarizing data
Based on recent surveys, most customers prefer same-day delivery.
4. Citing
Use for: Academic or research contexts
Citing a study by Harvard University, the article highlights the dangers of prolonged sitting.
5. In the Words Of
Use for: Direct quotes or expressive writing
In the words of Maya Angelou, “We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.”
6. According To Research By
Use for: Specific attribution. 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
According to research by Stanford University, multitasking reduces productivity.
7. Referring To
Use for: Neutral or informative writing. 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
Referring to recent statistics, the company’s growth rate has doubled.
8. As Reported By
Use for: Journalism or news reporting
As reported by Reuters, global oil prices have stabilized.
9. As Mentioned By
Use for: Conversational or informal tone
As mentioned by the teacher, homework is due on Friday.
10. On the Authority Of
Use for: Strong emphasis on credibility
On the authority of the FDA, the drug was approved for use.
11. As Noted By
Use for: Academic or research summaries
As noted by several scholars, climate change impacts migration patterns.
12. Following
Use for: Sequential or directive writing
Following guidelines from the CDC, schools implemented new safety protocols.
13. According To Estimates By
Use for: Financial or statistical analysis
According to estimates by Goldman Sachs, the market may rebound by Q3.
14. In Line With
Use for: Policy, guidelines, or trends
In line with environmental goals, the company reduced plastic use.
15. As Indicated By
Use for: Data or graphical references
As indicated by the chart, sales peaked in December.
16. As Observed By
Use for: Scientific or natural observations
As observed by researchers, the species has adapted to urban environments.
17. Per
Use for: Short, concise communications
Per your request, we have attached the invoice.
18. On the Word Of
Use for: Emphasizing trust or authority
On the word of the witness, the investigation proceeded.
19. With Reference To
Use for: Formal business or academic writing. 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
With reference to your proposal, we have several suggestions.
20. As Pointed Out By
Use for: Highlighting specific insights
As pointed out by the lead scientist, the results were inconclusive.
21. Drawing From
Use for: Creative, academic, or analytical contexts
Drawing from ancient philosophy, the book explores human motivation.
22. Based on
Use for: Legal or formal assessments
On the basis of the evidence, the court ruled in favor of the defendant.
23. As Recorded By
Use for: Historical or archival references
As recorded by early explorers, the region was rich in biodiversity.
24. By the Account Of
Use for: Narrative or anecdotal writing
By the account of eyewitnesses, the event was chaotic.
25. From the Perspective Of
Use for: Analytical or comparative writing
From the perspective of employees, the new policy seems fair.
26. According to the Findings Of
Use for: Academic or scientific reports
According to the findings of the study, the drug has mild side effects.
27. Per the Statement Of
Use for: Formal, legal, or contractual language
Per the statement of the spokesperson, the product will launch next month.
28. On the Recommendation Of
Use for: Guidance or professional advice
On the recommendation of our consultant, we revised our marketing strategy.
29. As Affirmed By
Use for: Emphasizing confirmation
As affirmed by the Board of Directors, the merger will proceed.
30. Quoting
Use for: Direct citations
Quoting Albert Einstein, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”
Tips for Using Alternatives Effectively
- Match the tone: Choose phrases appropriate for your audience and medium.
- Maintain clarity: Don’t use a complex phrase when a simple one will do.
- Be accurate: Always double-check your sources when attributing information.
Internal & External Linking Strategy
When using attribution phrases, it’s a good opportunity to include links: 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
- Internal links to other blog posts or articles on your site (e.g., how to cite sources effectively).
- External links to authoritative websites like Pew Research or Harvard Business Review.
These not only add credibility but also improve your SEO ranking. 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)
Final Thoughts
Expanding your vocabulary helps your writing stay fresh, professional, and engaging. By using these 30 alternatives to “according to, 30 Other Ways to Say ‘According to’ (With Examples), you can communicate with more precision and appeal to a wider audience across contexts.
Whether you’re writing an academic essay, a business report, or a blog post, having multiple tools in your linguistic toolbox will always serve you well. 30 Other Ways to Say “According To” (With Examples)